Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim celebrated a significant milestone on Thursday evening, as his side secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.
An impressive performance was highlighted by a goal from Alejandro Garnacho and a brace from Rasmus Hojlund, securing United’s second victory in the competition this season.
However, it wasn’t just the result that brought smiles to the faces of United supporters. The match showed undeniable signs of a developing footballing identity, despite the team once again adopting a 3-4-3 formation.
Although the performance wasn’t perfectly polished, there were undeniable flashes of the style Amorim envisions for the club in the future.
After the match, Amorim noted that the performance against Bodo/Glimt was an improvement on their recent outing against Ipswich Town at Portman Road. The United boss admitted that at this stage every game is about testing optimal strategies, but he found hope in this performance.
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Statistical analysts at OptaPlay have revealed a striking statistic that highlights United’s positive trajectory under Amorim’s leadership.
The 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt is notable as it is the first time in recorded history that Manchester United have completed over 700 passes, posted over 70% possession, registered 20 or more shots and racked up 40 touches or more in the opponent’s box in a major European match since the 2003/04 season, during the illustrious reign of Sir Alex Ferguson.
Specifically, United recorded an impressive total of 723 passes, held 72.4% possession, unleashed 20 shots on Bodo/Glimt goalkeeper Nikita Khaikin, and made 47 touches in the opponent’s box.
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Amorim has regularly expressed the need for United to master ball retention and control the tempo of matches. This philosophy was palpably evident against Bodo/Glimt, although it is clear that there is still a significant road ahead before the team can fully adapt to their ambitious demands.
With optimism in the air, supporters will be eager to see how the team capitalize on this encouraging foundation as they prepare to take on Everton in the Premier League on Sunday.
