In the first leg of the Europa League round of 16, Manchester United drew 1-1 with Real Sociedad. Although Joshua Zirkze broke the deadlock for Manchester United, Mikel Oyarzabal's penalty equalised. United's attack once again looked fragmented, especially in the first half, where they barely created effective chances.
The most frustrating moment came with Diogo Dalot. He was running down the right and looked like he could deliver a pinpoint cross for Hojlen, but he opted to return it and the chance came to naught. Hojlen was very disappointed with this, and United's attack came to a standstill once again.
After the game, Amorim praised Diogo Dalot's performance, but he was also unrelenting in pointing out his players' decision-making mistakes. "I guess it's hard to say, but I can imagine Diogo not sure if Rasmus has the advantage, he feels like he has a lot of time to think about attack," he said. One thing is for sure, they are very hungry to score goals and win and do their best. Sometimes they want to find the best solution in that position, but they don't make the best decision. ”
He stressed: "Rasmus was doing well and Dalot was working hard, but the decision was not ideal. It is important that we look forward and not argue. Let's move on to the next challenge. ”
Despite his hard work, Hojlen suffered another goal drought in the game. The Danish striker has failed to find the back of the net in 19 consecutive games and has not even had a single shot on goal against Real Sociedad. However, Amorim is optimistic and encourages him to be patient: "He really worked hard, gave it his all and made a lot of runs. He needs to keep playing and not be anxious. With Diogo, he runs very well, he is in a good position, sometimes the ball comes and sometimes it doesn't. ”
The draw with Real Sociedad left United with a need to improve their performance in the second leg at Old Trafford in order to progress. The team's plight against Spanish sides in Europe is clear for all to see, with the last six knockout rounds coming in all of La Liga.
However, ahead of this crucial comeback game, United need to turn their attention to this weekend's Premier League clash with Arsenal. With the domestic season up and down, a positive result against the Gunners could inject much-needed confidence into their European rivalry.