Europa League 2024/25: Four talking points from Manchester United vs FC Twente

Manchester United’s hopes of making a winning start to their 2024/25 Europa League campaign were dashed as they were held to a 1-1 draw by FC Twente on Wednesday.

The Red Devils went into the game as one of the bookmakers’ favourites to win UEFA’s second tier competition this season, but they failed to live up to their lofty status.

They looked in control after Christian Eriksen put them ahead, but failed to hammer home their advantage and were duly punished by the Eredivisie side.

In truth, it would be quicker to learn how to play poker by yourself than to unpick all the elements which contributed to yet another frustrating night at Old Trafford.

However, we have narrowed the field down to four key talking points which we believe are worthy of discussion after the team’s underwhelming performance.

Ten Hag bemoans United’s ‘complacent’ approach

Given how far Man United have fallen off the pace in recent years, they can ill-afford to take things easy against so-called inferior opponents.

Erik ten Hag admitted after the game that the players were ‘too complacent’, which is a damning collective assessment of the current squad.

FC Twente looked like they wanted it more and it was no surprise when they netted an equaliser following an Eriksen mistake in the second half.

Ten Hag admitted that he was ‘part of it’ after the game, which is a worrying comment given he has had more than two years to stamp his imprint on United.

Rashford was a rare bright spark for United

Ten Hag was criticised for dropping Marcus Rashford to the bench at Crystal Palace, but his decision was vindicated after he produced a strong performance against FC Twente.

His dazzling nutmeg on Ricky van Wolfswinkel was a sight to behold, while his willingness to work in the opposite direction was also noteworthy.

Rashford is building up a useful understanding with striker Joshua Zirkzee, which could pay dividends for the Red Devils as the season progresses.

Several Man United players were worthy of criticism after a hugely disappointing result, but Rashford was not one of them.

Diallo fails to shine on the other flank

With Antony failing to nail down a place on the right flank, Ten Hag has handed Amad Diallo the chance to prove he is up to the job during the early part of the season.

However, a return of one goal and one assist in seven appearances in all competitions is nowhere near good enough for a club of United’s stature.

While Diallo undoubtedly has ability, you would be hard-pushed to argue he would be a regular starter for any other of the Premier League’s ‘Big Six’ clubs.

The fans are desperate for Diallo to succeed, but there is a growing suspicion that he is not what United need on the right flank.

The midfield balance still isn’t right

Ten Hag’s inability to find the right balance in midfield is hindering United’s hopes of building a significant head of steam this season.

Although Eriksen is neat and tidy in the centre of the park, United cannot afford to carry a player whose lack of mobility creates issues in other areas.

A trio of Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes would offer more balance and Ten Hag must put them together against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

The Dutchman also needs to give them a run of games to build up an understanding if United are to have any chance of enjoying a successful season at home and abroad.