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Manchester United legend Gary Neville has claimed that Ruben Amorim’s men don’t like playing at Old Trafford because of the immense pressure that comes with playing in front of their home fans.
Neville made these comments following United’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal.
Bruno Fernandes’ brilliant strike gave United the lead just before the break, only for Declan Rice to equalise in the second half and ensure the points were shared.
Speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, the Sky Sports pundit explained that the improved performance and the fact they didn’t lose will give United some confidence ahead of Thursday’s Europa League meeting with Real Sociedad.
“It could have gone really badly wrong for Amorim this week after Fulham and going out of the FA Cup.”
“I think they’ll feel a little more confident leaving the stadium, the United players. I think it’s been a decent few days for them.”
“There were still elements of that performance that were well short but at least they got the result and did pick up in the second half. I thought the back five stuck at their task, I thought Casemiro had one of his better games.”
“The big game is on Thursday and Real Sociedad are going to be tough but I thought they did well in the first 60-65 minutes in Spain and there’s something to build on. Can they finish the season stronger and have a run in the Europa League? That’s going to make or break Amorim’s end to the season.”
“On United’s lackluster first-half attack and their revitalised performance after the interval, Neville added, “United don’t like playing [at Old Trafford] at the moment. It’s a struggle for them. There’s a weight on their shoulders that exists that means they find it difficult.”
“But they can, in moments, when they get a goal, all of a sudden, just rise. You saw that.”
“Second half, I thought they played some decent stuff. They were obviously still up against it with Arsenal but they created some big moments, there were some big chances for United.”
“David Raya made some great saves, Rasmus Hojlund again demonstrated why he’s not quite sharp enough in front of goal. He could have got the shot away quicker when Declan Rice tackles him, his touch could have been to the left.”
“I think Amorim will be really happy with the second half. United have got a higher xG [expected goals] than Arsenal and that doesn’t surprise me. They didn’t score in the second half but I thought the performance was so much better.”
Neville emphasised that United fans wouldn’t mind the team defending in a low block provided they’re threatening going forward. He noted that the problem is when they’re so deep into their own territory while also offering nothing.
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