Bruno Fernandes' successful penalty kick helped MU defeat Burnley in the 3rd round of the Premier League. The 3 points provided relief for everyone, but it is still not enough for Ruben Amorim's team to convince the fans. It's time for them to learn how to win properly, not in this "chasing" style.
MU has truly gone through a turbulent week starting with a loss to the unknown club Grimsby in the League Cup. But on August 30, the dramatic 3-2 victory over newly promoted Burnley at Old Trafford somewhat eased the pressure weighing on coach Ruben Amorim. Although they secured the full 3 points thanks to Bruno Fernandes' penalty in the 90+7' minute, the manner in which MU defeated their opponent once again revealed persistent issues that need addressing. After the final whistle by referee Sam Barrott, the 40-year-old coach did not celebrate wildly.
There was only a visible sense of relief on his face as he walked along the sideline, applauding to thank the fans. Everyone understood Amorim's feelings, even if you are just an ordinary supporter. Seeing his team twice let Burnley equalize in such a poor manner made it impossible for Amorim to be joyful. Facing a lower-ranked team and needing a last-minute penalty to claim the first win of the season surely made the Portuguese coach feel like he was about to "explode," but fortunately, he controlled himself in time. Had MU not beaten Burnley, we would have seen a very different expression from Amorim.
In terms of attack, Manchester United created enough chances with 26 shots towards Burnley's goal, showing the club is now confident to take shots and create opportunities instead of being "absent-minded" as before. This is undeniable. Amad Diallo missed a great chance after a sharp counterattack, and Bryan Mbeumo opened his Premier League account with his new team. The Cameroonian player's performance offers hope that he could be the key for Ruben Amorim's controversial 3-4-3 system to start working effectively, with his ability to stretch the formation and quality in his first touches.
Nevertheless, taking 26 shots but scoring only 3 goals is hardly something to celebrate. MU spent £200 million to upgrade the attack, but after the third Premier League match, only one new signing has scored. That is Mbeumo, while Sesko and Cunha remain silent. Moreover, Cunha suffered an injury and had to leave the field early. Sesko came on and had some decent headed shots but nothing perfect yet. His ability to combine, connect, and create chances on his own still requires time to prove.
However, MU’s defensive issues persist. After conceding two goals against Grimsby, the Red Devils conceded another two in the home match against Burnley. The first goal was an exact replica of Fulham’s equalizer last weekend, with the defense reading the situation poorly and being outnumbered. By the time everyone noticed, it was too late. The second goal came from a set-piece—a weakness that remained unchanged from Ten Hag’s era to Amorim’s tenure.
These defensive mistakes will surely worry fans when thinking about upcoming tough away games at Etihad or Anfield. There is even concern that MU might need a "basket" to hold the goals conceded because once Man City or Liverpool’s attackers get going, they have the power to turn any defense into a nightmare.
Although the win over Burnley was imperfect, it gave Ruben Amorim more time to plan for more convincing victories. With only five wins at Old Trafford since taking charge in November, the 40-year-old coach understands that more than a last-minute winning goal is needed to dispel doubts about his ability to lift the club out of a decade-long mediocrity. But remember, this is not about empty words, blame, or endlessly repeating poor issues.
For the Portuguese strategist, this is a long battle. The support and trust from MU's board towards Amorim are truly substantial. They want to avoid too many changes after so many shifts in recent years. They are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with Amorim but do not want the club to constantly strain itself to score and gain advantages only to be pierced by simple attacks from opponents.
A season without European competition is a good opportunity for Amorim to refine, fix mistakes, and upgrade everything. MU’s fighting spirit is commendable. Fans want victories but "please" win in the simplest way possible.