Manchester United players are experiencing anxiety when it comes to scoring goals, according to manager Ruben Amorim, who specifically highlighted a missed opportunity during their 1-1 Europa League draw against Real Sociedad.
The Red Devils were held to a stalemate in the first leg of their last-16 tie, with Joshua Zirkzee's opener being cancelled out by Mikel Oyarzabal's penalty. While United managed to secure a draw away from home, their attacking play once again appeared disjointed with limited chances created, particularly in the first half.
One notably frustrating moment occurred when Diogo Dalot found himself in an excellent position on the right wing with Rasmus Hojlund making a well-timed run ahead of his marker. Instead of delivering an early cross, Dalot hesitated and opted to cut back, allowing Sociedad's defense to recover and the promising attack to fizzle out. Hojlund was visibly frustrated by his teammate's decision.
Addressing the incident after the match, Amorim offered his perspective: "I think it's hard to say but I'm just imagining Diogo doesn't know for sure Rasmus has the advantage and he felt that he had a lot of time to think the play."
The Portuguese manager acknowledged the psychological pressure his players are facing: "One thing for sure is they are really anxious to score goals and to win games so they are doing all the best. And sometimes they want the best way in that position but are not deciding the best way in their position."
Despite being critical of Dalot's decision-making, Amorim was quick to praise both players' efforts: "Was a clear position, Rasmus did really well, Dalot did really well, the decision was not the best, the important thing is to move on and not fighting. Let's move on to the next game."
For Hojlund, the match continued a concerning drought in front of goal. The Danish forward has now gone 19 consecutive matches without scoring and failed to register a single shot against Sociedad. Despite these struggles, Amorim remains supportive of the 22-year-old striker.
"He is trying really hard, he gave everything, he made the runs," Amorim said. "We know that Sociedad has the high line, he uses his pace to win and to fight. And the other thing is he's going to appear in the right moment, he has to continue to play and not be anxious."
The manager specifically referenced the incident with Dalot when discussing Hojlund's performance: "In that position with Diogo, he did a great run, was in position, sometimes the ball comes, sometimes it doesn't. So he needs to think in the next way and in the next game."
The draw in Spain means United will need an improved performance in the second leg at Old Trafford if they hope to advance in the competition. Their record against Spanish clubs in European competitions has been troubling, with their last six knockout eliminations coming against La Liga sides.
Before focusing on the return leg, United face a crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal this weekend. With their domestic campaign faltering, a positive result against the Gunners could provide the confidence boost they need ahead of the decisive European fixture.
