Manchester United turned in a terrible performance from start to finish in their defeat to Tottenham at Old Trafford.
The depth of United’s poor showing is difficult to quantify, but the opening goal exemplifies their struggles. After losing the ball, a Tottenham defender was allowed to run 70 yards without opposition, deliver a low cross, and find an unmarked winger who easily scored. It was a chaotic moment.
Erik ten Hag’s squad showed no signs of recovery, ultimately losing 3-0, with the possibility of an even greater margin.
### Diogo Dalot Faces Criticism
Diogo Dalot has come under significant scrutiny for his failure to mark Brennan Johnson during Tottenham’s first goal. Former United defender Danny Simpson, speaking on MUTV, expressed his disappointment with the team’s defensive effort and specifically criticized Dalot’s involvement in the goal.
Simpson remarked, “The amount of space Brennan Johnson had at the back post when the cross came in was shocking. That’s Dalot’s area to defend. Regardless of whether he was playing in an inverted role or as a full-back, he should have covered that.”
He added, “Allowing a goal just two or three minutes into the match is catastrophic. The entire buildup was poor.”
### Dalot’s Defensive Shortcomings
Reflecting on Manchester United’s defensive issues, Simpson noted, “We need to improve on closing down space, reacting more quickly, and ensuring everyone shifts effectively across the field.” He mentioned that Ugarte could have acted faster, but by the time he did, it was already too late.
Simpson continued, “Dalot raised his hands in apology, but that’s unacceptable at any level.”
Jamie Redknapp also criticized Dalot on Sky Sports, stating, “It’s unacceptable from Dalot. He was on the far side of the pitch; as a left-back, he should have been tracking back to follow the run. Instead, he was jogging. It reflects poorly on him.”
### Dalot’s Role in the Third Goal
Following Bruno Fernandes’ red card, Tottenham added two more goals in the second half, with Dalot again at fault for the third. Dominic Solanke scored easily from a flicked corner, as Dalot was slow to respond and out of position.
United has relied on Dalot at left-back due to injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, who will be sidelined until after the international break. While Dalot had generally performed well in that role, this match marked one of his weakest showings in recent memory.