Diogo Dalot in action for Man United
Diogo Dalot in action for Man United
The Portuguese defender gave away a clumsy penalty in the early stages of the second half to give Villa the lead again.
It was far from his best moment in a Man United jersey, and criticism is certainly deserved for that.
However, many continue to overlook his overall performances, instead focusing on individual moments in certain games.
Dalot is far from United's biggest issue, despite what keyboard-thumping fans on social media may lead you to believe.
Indeed, his Premier League stats point towards him being a more than capable defender.
Why Diogo Dalot deserves less criticism at Manchester United
Dalot has often been a divisive figure among Manchester United supporters, with his performances regularly coming under scrutiny
The defender has made mistakes this season, and even he would not deny that.
However, there is a lot more to his game than the occasional lapse in concentration, and his underlying numbers suggest he may be becoming a far too easy and readily made scapegoat.
According to FotMob, Dalot is actually one of the best fullbacks in the Premier League for chances created per 90.
He is ranked in the 95.9th percentile, with 1.89 chances created every 90 minutes.
Furthermore, Dalot wins more duels than most fullbacks each 90, with 6.42 duels won.
In his other defensive stats, the United man also comes in the 91st percentile for recoveries per 90 with 5.54.
Yes, Dalot may frustrate plenty at Old Trafford, but he is far better than anyone gives him credit for, and that mistake against Villa will again be an unfair bat to hit him with.
Man United need a right-back regardless of Dalot concerns
Regardless of whether Dalot is good enough for Man United, a new right-back is needed either way.
The option of Noussair Mazraoui or an out of position Leny Yoro is far from ideal, with Dalot having to cover at left-back in recent weeks.
That fact may also be hampering the Portuguese defender from truly showing his quality, as most players would struggle in an unfamilar role.
It leaves United short of natural options on both sides and places unnecessary pressure on the existing defensive options.
Bringing in a natural right-back and left-back would provide greater balance, depth and allow those like Dalot to possibly get back to their best.