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Manchester United kicked off their Premier League campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford, courtesy of a late goal from debutant Joshua Zirkzee.
The match, held on Friday night, saw United eventually breaking through in the dying minutes after a challenging encounter.
Fulham began the game on the front foot, impressing with their performance in the first half but failing to find the back of the net.
Manchester United, meanwhile, took some time to settle into the match, gradually gaining momentum as the first half progressed.
As the game entered the second half, United started to create more chances, putting the Fulham defense under increasing pressure.
However, despite their efforts, the scoreline remained goalless, and it appeared as though Erik ten Hag’s side might have to settle for a draw.
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That was until the 87th minute when Zirkzee, making his debut for the club, netted the decisive goal in front of the Stretford End, securing all three points for United.
Under Ten Hag’s guidance, the team has moved away from the chaotic, high-energy tactics that characterized much of their play last year.
Instead, there has been a noticeable shift towards building from the back, maintaining possession, and patiently working to create opportunities.
However, one area where the team has struggled is in front of goal.
Despite carving out numerous chances, United’s finishing has been subpar, something that will undoubtedly concern Ten Hag as the season progresses and the opposition becomes tougher.
This problem was especially clear in their recent games against Fulham and Manchester City, where Alejandro Garnacho failed to capitalize on an open goal and Bruno Fernandes squandered two significant chances.
On the other hand, Marcus Rashford amissed several clear-cut opportunities in the Community Shield clash against Manchester City, which could have secured a victory for United in regulation time.
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Rashford’s form has been a topic of much discussion, particularly after a disappointing campaign last season, both on and off the pitch.
The England international, who had been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, remains at United for now, but his future is far from certain.
Jim Ratcliffe gives Marcus Rashford a “last chance”
INEOS owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has taken a hands-on role in the club’s operations, has reportedly given Rashford an ultimatum: improve his performances this season, or face the possibility of an exit next summer.
Rashford, who enjoyed a career-best season under Ten Hag in the Dutchman’s first year at the helm, scoring 30 goals, struggled to replicate that form last season, failing to reach double figures in goals.
The inconsistency in his performances has been a persistent issue throughout his career, and it appears that this season may be his last opportunity to prove his worth to the club.
Now, according to journalist Steve Bates of Givemesport, Ratcliffe is determined to instill a culture of high standards and elite professionalism at Manchester United, and there will be no room for players who fail to meet those expectations.
The report states that the senior club figures, including Ratcliffe and David Brailsford, are reportedly seeing this as Rashford’s “last chance saloon,” the pressure is on the 26-year-old to deliver on the pitch.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Rashford to see if he can rediscover the form that made him one of the most exciting talents in English football.
With the stakes higher than ever, the next few months could be crucial in determining his future at Old Trafford.
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