The two sides of Manchester United in a thrilling draw against Nottingham

Manchester United earned an important point at City Ground in a 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest. This outcome is seen as appropriate for Ruben Amorim’s squad. The club’s winning run has ended, yet they remain undefeated. The challenge now is for Manchester United to address the "flaws" exposed by this draw.

Two goals from set-piece situations

Both of Manchester United’s goals originated from set pieces, demonstrating a positive tactical shift by the Red Devils’ coaching staff. This clear improvement is the result of Ruben Amorim’s dedicated work since gaining sufficient "resources" for the 2025/26 season.

In the 34th minute, Bruno Fernandes delivered a precise corner kick that allowed Casemiro to head in the opening goal. This was a textbook example of coordination, both in team spacing and Casemiro’s timing, reflecting the organization and discipline Amorim is steadily instilling in his players. It left Nottingham’s strong aerial defense almost disoriented.

At the 81st minute, another corner kick created an opportunity for the Red Devils. Although a Forest player headed the ball away, Amad Diallo was perfectly positioned to unleash a flawless volley from outside the penalty area to equalize at 2-2. This goal not only showcased Amad’s individual technical skill but also highlighted Manchester United’s growing ability to exploit second balls and turn them into chances instead of conceding counterattacks. Throughout 90 minutes against Nottingham, United managed this well, greatly relieving defensive pressure after set pieces.

Two very similar goals conceded

While Manchester United’s set-piece attacking plays showed discipline and planning, their defensive system was vulnerable and conceded goals. Within the first five minutes of the second half, United allowed two goals with nearly identical patterns: both came from Forest’s attacks down the right flank — United’s left defensive side, guarded by Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot. In both cases, the Red Devils’ defense showed lapses in concentration, allowing opponents to comfortably deliver crosses from advantageous positions into the box.

The goals conceded were partly due to individual errors, highlighting once again that Amorim should not overly rely on Dalot, which has been detrimental. Many have suggested that Amorim should use true left-backs rather than a right-back like Dalot, who can only perform adequately at best. Another problem is the imbalance in Manchester United’s defensive zonal system.

When Cunha had to press from a great distance to block crosses in both conceded goals, the gaps between United’s defensive lines became more apparent. This exposed the issues with the central midfield pairing of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro, who are not true "clean-up" midfielders. Seeing Anderson of Nottingham operating almost alone against United’s midfield surely makes Amorim eager to sign the English star. His arrival would fully resolve midfield problems United faces. Moreover, Anderson is willing to push forward to shoot and assist. In summary, Manchester United should sign Anderson, especially when comparing him to Brighton’s Baleba, who has declined in form after missing a move to United in summer 2025.

A draw was the fair result for Manchester United

After three consecutive wins — a rare achievement for Manchester United in recent times — the star-studded squad might have been somewhat complacent facing Nottingham. The 2-2 draw reflects the reality of the transitional process Amorim is leading at Old Trafford, showing some progress that fans can be hopeful about. United now has organization, clear ideas, and effective set-piece plays, but still lacks balance in spatial control and in reacting to attacks from the wings, central areas, or opponent’s set-piece setups.

There remain issues the club must address. If signings are to be made, the January transfer window is the right time. If the bright side proves strategic progress, the dark side reminds us that Manchester United is still mid-way through its development, where any small mistake in the system can undo the team’s collective efforts.

Ruben Amorim has every right to be proud of Manchester United’s progress — this is clear to everyone. However, he should be more decisive in personnel choices. Not participating in European competitions gives United a strong fitness base, but they have not demonstrated much on the pitch. Furthermore, Amorim needs to bench some players to keep the squad sharp, such as Dalot. His mediocre performances have cost United multiple times. Patrick Dorgu deserves more trust, and Amorim could promote the highly impressive youth player Leon to the first team. During pre-season, Leon showed boldness, creativity, and excellent form. If Manchester United wants to return to the Champions League next season, Amorim must be even tougher.