Manchester United could only secure a 2-2 draw with French side Lyon in the Europa League last night, with Ruben Amorim’s side unfortunate not to come away the victors.
Goals from Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee could’ve secured all three points for the Red Devils but were denied the win by a late strike from the hosts in stoppage time.
Thiago Almada and Rayan Cherki were on the scoresheet for the Ligue 1 outfit, with goalkeeper Andre Onana at fault for both of the host’s efforts at the Groupama Stadium.
Whilst a win could’ve been on the cards after edging ahead with just a couple of minutes to go, Amorim’s men have the chance to secure qualification at Old Trafford next Thursday.
Despite their failure to return to home soil with an advantage, numerous players managed to impress, certainly securing their place in the side for the second leg next week.
Man Utd’s star performers against Lyon
Wing-back Patrick Dorgu once again demonstrated that he’s been a superb winter addition to the United first-team, impressing once more in the draw last night.
The 20-year-old completed 100% of the crosses he’s attempted, whilst also achieving an 88% pass completion rate along with a 100% success rate in tackles and aerial duels won – having a huge impact at both ends.
Midfielder Bruno Fernandes has been the shining light in what has been a dismal season for the club, often being the go-to man in terms of goal contributions within the final third.
Last night was no different for the Portuguese international, registering the assist for Zirkzee’s effort, stretching his lead as the Europa League’s highest contributor in terms of goals and assists.
However, despite the showing of the 30-year-old, one other player managed to impress within Amorim’s side – arguably becoming as important as the talent in recent months.
The player who’s becoming as important as Bruno for United
As previously mentioned, Fernandes has thrived this year despite United’s lowly league standing – notching 31 combined goals and assists across all competitions.
It’s unthinkable to imagine where the Red Devils would be without him in 2024/25, undoubtedly the key reason as to why they still have an opportunity to end the season as Europa League winners.
However, if they are to achieve such a feat, he won’t be able to do it alone, with other first team members needing to step up to the occasion and push the side in the right direction.
Centre-back Yoro has done just that over the last couple of months, cementing his place within the backline upon his return to action after a long injury lay-off.
His showing against Lyon last night was yet another one to be proud of, catching the eye at both ends of the pitch despite his defensive position.
The 19-year-old managed to net his first goal for the club during the draw, putting the side level after Onana’s mistake from Almada’s free-kick in the first half.
However, he also starred with his ball-playing, notching a total of 64 touches, and completing 50 passes at a completion rate of 93% – highlighting his composure on the ball.
Minutes played
90
Touches
64
Passes completed
50/54 (93%)
Goals scored
1
Tackles won
1/1 (100%)
Ground duels won
2/4 (50%)
Interceptions made
1
He also managed to impress at the back, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, whilst also managing to win two ground duels – thriving despite the side conceding twice.
As a result of his showing, Yoro was handed an 8/10 match rating by Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst – showcasing how impressive he was in France last night.
After such a display, it’s safe to say the Frenchman has managed to cement his place as a regular starter at the heart of the backline, with the defence needing to be built around him this summer.
Whilst Bruno has been the star in attacking areas of late, there’s no denying that Yoro has proven he’s capable of being a key player in the United rebuild, having the potential to improve further given his tender age.
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