Manchester United are left feeling disappointed after an opening day defeat to Arsenal.
Last season Manchester United experienced a series of crushing and dispiriting losses. 2025/26 began with another defeat, but this was a more uplifting one.
United were the better team against Arsenal, outplaying the Gunners and peppering 22 shots at their goal.
New signings Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha shone, and there were lively displays from wing-backs Patrick Dorgu and Amad.
Despite all of this, Manchester United lost the game 1-0, leaving with pride but no points.
Bruno Fernandes appeals
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Bruno Fernandes conundrum continues
Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha were excellent on their full debuts for Manchester United, doing everything except managing to score.
Bruno Fernandes moved deeper into midfield to accommodate the pair, and this is a work in progress for Ruben Amorim.
Amorim is trying to find the best partner for Fernandes, one who allows him to best showcase his attacking assets.
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He began with Casemiro, before replacing him with Manuel Ugarte. Kobbie Mainoo was not used at all, and must get game time in upcoming games later this month.
United have been pursuing Carlos Baleba without success, and are considering alternatives before the transfer deadline.
Fernandes delivered – but not from set pieces
Bruno Fernandes did what he does, influencing the game from a ‘new role’ this time, creating five goalscoring chances. This was the highest of any player on the pitch.
Fernandes also covered 10.9 kilometres, the joint most of any Manchester United player along with Patrick Dorgu.
This is what you get from Fernandes. Relentless effort, and one who is capable of creating chances whenever he gets the ball.
But at key moments in Manchester United’s loss, fans were left wanting a little more from the club captain.
There was no repeat of his free-kick goal against Arsenal from last season, when his first half effort cannoned into the Gunners wall.
He put five crosses into the box, at a 20 per cent success rate, with only one connecting with a Manchester United teammate.
A little more composure from Fernandes and better execution at key moments could have turned this game from a fairly good one, to an excellent one.
United failed to put the ball in the back of the net, and that has to change in upcoming matches against Fulham and Burnley.