Manchester United and Ipswich Town played out a hard-fought Premier League draw at Portman Road today.
Marcus Rashford gave United a perfect start, scoring inside two minutes.
The Red Devils failed to create any other clear chances in the rest of the game, underscoring the significant work ahead for new manger Ruben Amorim.
Amorim spoke to BBC Sport after the game: “Not a good result, but it is a tough league with high intensity. We started very well but should have had more of the ball. But we are learning.
“It was really hard for them, they were thinking what to do, it was not fluid which is normal after to just two training sessions but they tried hard.
“They have so much space to improve. But after a draw you never feel the good things. So I am really happy because they tried but they can do so much better.
Amorim hasn’t had much time to work with the entire squad
Many United players were busy on international duty and had just two training sessions under their new manager.
Amorim’s assessment is correct that the decision-making of his players is concerning.
While he would have seen plenty of promise in his squad, he knows they are still a long way from reaching their full capabilities.
Alejandro Garnacho had two excellent chances to deliver critical passes to his teammates, but his delayed thinking allowed Ipswich Town defenders to make crucial tackles on both occasions.
Manuel Ugarte and Rashford were also guilty of making clumsy choices on the ball, which disrupted their attack.
Amorim’s comments highlight that he wants his team to play with a free mind and express themselves.
If he can get the players to play with freedom, they will start delivering exceptional performances.
