Embarrassing performance 🙁Amorim should bench him forever after today’s disasterclass

Yoro – 4, Mainoo – 6: Rating Man Utd Players in Crystal Palace Loss

Manchester United’s struggles in the Premier League continued with a disappointing defeat against Crystal Palace. A night that was supposed to mark a return to winning ways instead turned into another frustrating chapter in United’s turbulent season. Ruben Amorim’s men lacked fluidity, defensive discipline, and a clinical edge in attack, ultimately succumbing to a well-organized Palace side.

Leny Yoro, United’s young defensive prodigy, endured a torrid outing. His mistimed header led directly to Crystal Palace’s first goal, leaving his team on the back foot from the outset. The teenager, signed amid much fanfare, has shown promise in previous games, but this performance highlighted his inexperience. He struggled against Palace’s high pressing, losing key duels and failing to organize the backline. For a player still learning the ropes, nights like this will serve as harsh lessons.

Bruno Fernandes, the team’s captain and creative fulcrum, had a game to forget. Struggling to impose himself in midfield, he misplaced crucial passes and failed to capitalize on a golden opportunity in the 73rd minute. His leadership on the pitch has been questioned this season, and this match did little to silence critics. When United needed inspiration, Fernandes could not deliver.

Amad Diallo, handed a rare start, had a mixed night. While his movement was sharp and he linked up well with teammates, his final product was lacking. He created a great chance for Yoro in the first half, but the defender couldn’t convert. Despite flashes of brilliance, Amad’s lack of consistency remains a concern as he fights for more game time.

Kobbie Mainoo, deployed in an advanced role, began the match brightly. The young midfielder struck the post early on and set up a chance for Alejandro Garnacho. However, his influence waned as the game progressed, and he found himself isolated. Amorim’s tactical decision to use him as a striker raised eyebrows, and while Mainoo showed effort, he lacked the natural instincts of a center-forward.

Harry Maguire, despite his aerial threat during set pieces, endured a frustrating evening. Booked for a reckless challenge, he was also guilty of playing Daniel Muñoz onside in a key moment. His lack of pace was exposed, and while he has enjoyed a resurgence this season, this was not his finest hour.

Elsewhere, Lisandro Martínez (5/10) battled hard but was overwhelmed by Palace’s quick transitions. Noussair Mazraoui (6/10) showed attacking intent but struggled defensively. Manuel Ugarte (6/10) worked tirelessly in midfield but was unable to control the tempo of the game. Diogo Dalot (4/10) endured a torrid time on the right flank, failing to track his runners effectively. Garnacho (5/10) looked lively in moments but lacked end product. André Onana (5/10) made a couple of decent saves but was let down by poor positioning for Palace’s opener.

United’s substitutes offered little in terms of impact. Rasmus Højlund (4/10) was anonymous after coming on. Joshua Zirkzee (4/10) struggled to hold up play. Matthijs de Ligt (4/10) failed to shore up the defense. Christian Eriksen was introduced too late to be rated.

Amorim’s tactical decisions came under scrutiny. Starting Mainoo as a striker rather than a traditional forward raised questions about United’s attacking setup. The lack of a focal point in attack resulted in plenty of possession but little penetration. Palace, on the other hand, exploited United’s vulnerabilities with sharp counterattacks and took their chances clinically.

The reaction from fans was predictably harsh. Many pointed fingers at Onana, questioning his positioning for Palace’s goal. Others criticized the club’s recruitment strategy, arguing that Yoro was signed merely to prevent Real Madrid from getting him rather than because he was truly ready for the Premier League. Some fans defended the young defender, urging patience as he develops, while others demanded immediate improvements.

Concerns also arose about Amorim’s ability to adapt to the Premier League. His decision to field a striker-less lineup puzzled many, and his reluctance to make decisive changes sooner in the game left United chasing shadows. Some supporters believe that he needs time, while others are already calling for a change at the helm.

United’s inconsistency remains their biggest issue. They can produce dominant displays one week and then crumble the next. With key fixtures ahead, the pressure is mounting on both the manager and the players to find solutions. The club’s ambitions of securing a Champions League spot seem to be fading, and if performances like this continue, a top-six finish might not even be guaranteed.

There is also growing frustration regarding squad depth. Injuries have forced Amorim into tactical experiments, but the team’s lack of balance is evident. While young talents like Mainoo and Yoro offer hope for the future, United’s reliance on inexperienced players in crucial positions is proving costly. The January transfer window could not come soon enough, but the club’s approach to signings will need to be more strategic than in previous years.

Ultimately, this defeat was another stark reminder of United’s struggles. A lack of cohesion, defensive frailties, and poor finishing combined to hand Palace a deserved win. If the Red Devils are to salvage their season, they must show significant improvement in both their tactical discipline and mentality. The upcoming fixtures will test their resolve, and failure to bounce back could lead to serious consequences for both players and coaching staff.