Manager Ruben Amorim enjoyed two consecutive Premier League wins for the first time since taking charge of Manchester United, after Harry Maguire scored the winning goal 2-1 at Anfield. This defeat also put Liverpool in crisis with 4 consecutive defeats in all competitions.
Man United had a dream start when Bryan Mbeumo opened the scoring in the second minute. Cody Gakpo then had two shots on the post before equalizing for Liverpool in the 78th minute. However, Maguire - a defensive player - ended the day brilliantly with an accurate header in the 84th minute.
This victory helped Man United narrow the gap with Liverpool, who are currently in fourth place, down to 2 points. Meanwhile, The Kop will have to quickly regain their spirits before the match against Eintracht Frankfurt in the UEFA Champions League in midweek, to avoid the fifth consecutive loss.
Amorim has had a nightmare 11 months as Man United head coach since leaving Sporting CP to move to Old Trafford in November last year. The Portuguese tactician suffered a defeat in the UEFA Europa League final, leading Man United to their worst season in Premier League history and facing prolonged doubts about their future.
However, the victory at Anfield can be considered a big turning point for Amorim at Man United. Defeating the defending champion away from home was the most impressive result he has had since taking office.
This is the first time the "Red Devils" have won 2 consecutive Premier League matches under Amorim, helping them shorten the gap from the top 4 to 2 points. And while the result was the most important, Man United's performance was meaningful, as it was their best match since Amorim took charge.
Man United defended solidly and organizedly, with Casemiro shining in midfield, while Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount continuously created danger up front. Under Amorim, the team had collapsed under pressure many times, but at Anfield, they maintained their game and their mettle under the stifling pressure from Liverpool in the second half.
This victory will give Amorim and the Man United players the confidence they have lacked over time, while helping the whole team recognize a real opportunity to maintain their momentum.
For now, Man United have a more favorable schedule, with 3 matches against Brighton, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur before the international break in November. This is an opportunity for Amorim and his students to continue to rise to the top of the Premier League rankings.
"I think this is my biggest win since coming to Man United. It has a great meaning today, but tomorrow, it will still be only 3 points. However, it was a great victory.
Every day as a coach of Man United is special, but today is truly a special victory. Seeing the fans singing loudly on the champion's court, in front of the biggest opponent, that feeling is hard to describe.
This victory is for the fans and for the team's spirit, because I believe we can still play better. We will analyze the game like usual, but what makes me most proud is the cohesion that the players show" - Amorim said after the match.
