Under Friday night lights, Manchester United stumbled. A day to remember for Harry Maguire became one of regret when he was shown a red card during a second-half flurry of goals. Twice United had the lead against Bournemouth, twice they were pegged back. Eli Junior Kroupi’s penalty snatched yet another draw for Andoni Iraola’s Premier League specialists in collecting single points, an opponent United really do not enjoy facing; the sixth successive time they have failed to beat Bournemouth. Michael Carrick’s regime have changed plenty for the better over 10 games but here came a disorderly echo of United’s troubled recent past and a stall of their Champions League chase.
The 4-4 draw played out at Old Trafford in December was a key juncture in Ruben Amorim’s downward spiral, game and team spinning out of his control. The more coherent, square pegs in square holes, team structure installed since owes plenty to Steve Holland. Carrick’s assistant, track suit rather than sharp suit, shuns the limelight but is as influential as when alongside Gareth Southgate. Whether that partnership sustains beyond the summer remains the biggest pending decision for the Ineos politburo.
Carrick had opted for the starting lineup from the defeat of Aston Villa, Benjamin Sesko continuing his impact sub role. Among the starters, Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo, recalled by England, and reportedly both in line for fresh new contracts when previously headed for exits. At the Vitality, Mainoo was competing in midfield with Alex Scott, omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s bloated squad, despite an outstanding season for Bournemouth. England have a depth of options in the No 6 position, and Scott and Mainoo matched up well within a frantic midfield scrap.
