Four days after losing to Sheffield United, Manchester United lost a little more ground in the title race after managing only a goalless draw against Arsenal on Saturday.
It was a tale of two halves, as the Red Devils controlled the first half and Arsenal bossed much of the second half. United did have a bunch of chances to take all three points but were unable to convert. They have now dropped 5 points in their last two games and sit second in the Premier League table on 41 points, and only because Leicester City lost unexpectedly against Leeds United.
It was not all bad news though as Solskjaer’s side has now set a club record for most unbeaten away games with their 18th undefeated game on the road in a row.
Here are three key takeaways from Manchester United’s 0-0 vs Arsenal today:
Poor finishing let the Red Devils down
Once again poor finishing from United kept them from taking all three points in a game they could have won easily.
Marcus Rashford had a few chances where he was caught up making one too many moves. Bruno Fernandes had a chance just before half-time when he was awarded a free-kick just outside the box, but the ball was blocked by David Luiz. Edinson Cavani, starting over Anthony Martial, had a glorious chance in the 59th minute but sent the ball just wide of the post.
If United want to lift the Premier League trophy come May, they will need to sort out their finishing and quickly.
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Edinson Cavani appears to be the best striker at the club
While Cavani didn’t score against Arsenal, he did have a lot of chances to give United the three points, but just wasn’t able to finish them off.
Even then, it seems that Cavani is the better option to start over an out-of-form Anthony Martial. He provides a better work rate and is willing to put constant pressure on the defensive backline, forcing mistakes. He has also looked good playing alongside Rashford and in front of both Pogba and Fernandes.
Cavani could be the answer to United’s problems in the final third of the pitch if they give him more opportunities to start.
Manchester United’s road record continues
Most teams, especially in football are better at home than on the road, but for quite some time now, Manchester United have looked better away from Old Trafford.
The Red Devils have now broken a new record as they recorded their 18th straight away games without tasting defeat. Maybe it’s because there are no fans inside stadiums and maybe it’s because they’re enjoying being away from home more than playing inside an empty Old Trafford. But holding an 8-3-0 away record is absolutely fantastic, especially if you plan on trying to win the Premier League.