If there is one factor that most clearly reflects Manchester United's disappointing performance in the 2024-2025 season, it is their poor form at Old Trafford. And as they entered the new season with a desire to change, the opening round of the Premier League once again exposed that truth.
The 0-1 loss to Arsenal marked the "Red Devils" 10th home defeat in less than a year. This is equal to the total number of home losses they suffered in the previous 3 years (from October 2021 to May 2024).
Since Ruben Amorim took over the hot seat to replace Erik ten Hag last November, Man United have lost 8 matches at Old Trafford. The Portuguese coach alone has suffered 15 defeats in just 28 Premier League games. This is a sad record that only Portsmouth' Paul Hart (27 in 2009) has reached sooner.
In numbers, the picture is really gloomy. Starting with another defeat made the worry even more lost positive signals from a series of pre-season friendlies.
But unlike last season, this defeat still left a positive impression. Old Trafford saw a team of "Red Devils" playing offensively, strong in disputes, direct in handling the ball and having the ability to control the game.
Arsenal scored early and somewhat accepted a deep drop, but Amorim's performance left a sense of a Man United different from the familiar image of a downturn last season.
Man United held the ball up to 60.7% against Arsenal - an impressive number if looking at the context before the match. This was only the third time since 2016 that they have had over 60% possession in a Premier League match against a Big Six opponent. The previous two times were all against Tottenham, a team that was often overwhelmed by Man United in terms of head-to-head record.
Of course, possession does not always mean victory. However, the biggest difference compared to last season was that Man United both dominated the game and created a real threat. If in the 2024-2025 season, Bruno Fernandes was almost the only bright spot, this time the whole team showed clearly their personality and confidence.
Fernandes continued to play the core role, but instead of finishing from a distance, he took the initiative to drop deep, ensuring the ball's rotation and providing opportunities for the attack trio. It is this balance that helps Man United create constant pressure.
The most prominent explosive is Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian striker was almost unstoppable with his speed, strength and individual technique. He made it difficult for Arsenal's defense to continue.
The statistics further illustrate Cunha's influence. He leads the Premier League in the opening round in terms of average travel per dribble (18.2m) and average speed on the ball (15.5 km/h). Most of Cunha's moves have come from both sides, which is in line with Amorim's philosophy.
From what Cunha has shown, it can be seen that he is more suitable for Amorim's system than Garnacho. The Brazilian player was brave, direct and energetic to become the central explosive in attacks.
If Cunha is the direct drill, Mbeumo will have another impact. Not explosive with teammates, but the Cameroonian international stood out in the first half thanks to his ability to hold the ball firmly, running smartly both with and without the ball.
Mbeumo also proves its value through numbers. He is one of the players who has dribbled the ball the longest in round 1 of the Premier League (240.8m), behind only Callum Hudson-Odoi in the non-defender group. In addition, he had more shots than most of his players, finishing just behind three in the entire opening round of the Premier League.
The remaining piece in Man United's attack is Mason Mount. Compared to Cunha and Mbeumo, he is calmer, but his contribution is not small. The former Chelsea midfielder often makes smart moves and plays an important role in reducing Martin Zubimendi's influence on Arsenal's side.
Mount also left his mark in attack with 4 shots and passes to open up opportunities for his teammates. He may not be explosive, but Mount's intelligence and balance help Amorim's upper trio operate more efficiently.
