Manchester United returned to winning ways in Europe as they defeated PAOK 2-0 at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
Amad Diallo’s double in the second half ensured Man United secured their first European win in 380 days. Amad broke the deadlock with a looping header from Bruno Fernandes’ cross at the back post five minutes into the second half.
The Ivory Coast international ensured three points were secured by regaining possession and curling a shot into the bottom corner via a slight deflection.
Despite United’s victory, Rasmus Hojlund has been criticized for his performance during the match.
Hojlund only touched the ball 10 times in a dull first half and struggled to make an impact leading the line between Amad and Alejandro Garnacho and ahead of Fernandes.
Rasmus Hojlund of Manchester United runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Omar Colley of PAOK FC (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
Speaking after the match, former United midfielder Paul Scholes was critical of Hojlund’s performance, feeling he did little to unsettle the PAOK defence.
“There was a little spell after Manchester United scored that PAOK looked a little dangerous but it was well controlled for the most part,” he said on TNT Sports. “I was a little disappointed in Rasmus Hojlund. I think he will improve and get better once he is coached by a coach that believes in him. I’m not saying Ruud [van Nistelrooy] doesn’t believe in him.”
Scholes shared his insights alongside Van Nistelrooy and the club’s current caretaker boss, discussing the significance of Fernandes’ role in the No. 10 spot and the necessity for young talent Hojlund to forge a bond with the skipper.
Scholes said: “I think that’s key for Rasmus you need partnerships in the team, you need to get close to him
“I think he had a little bit of a difficult night, it wasn’t his best night, but as you say, they had that bit where Bruno turns, he’s in the space and Rasmus makes that run. He can do that but it didn’t happen enough tonight for him.”
Adding to the analysis, Van Nistelrooy commented: “It didn’t happen enough. Second half, we were better in positions but also some crosses in the box where he makes runs didn’t come at the time.”
Hojlund will be eager to get back to his best form as United prepare for a new era under the guidance of their new manager Ruben Amorim.
