Antony’s first Premier League goal this season was not enough for Manchester United to take all three points at Old Trafford, as Zeki Amdouni’s 87th-minute penalty following an inexplicable foul by André Onana saw the relegation-threatened Clarets take a point. Here are five things we learnt from the encounter.
Manchester United 1-1 Burnley: Five Things We Learnt As Antony Shines
Five Things We Learnt: There’s Life in Antony Yet
Bought at a hefty £85m in the summer of 2022 upon Ten Hag’s arrival, the Brazilian has as yet flattered to deceive for the Red Devils, occasional moments of brilliance overshadowed by a majority of ineffective displays on the right wing. In the first half, the 24 year old combined well with Fernandes on several occasions and went close with a couple of shots on his trusty left foot, perhaps starting to show glimpses of the potential he displayed under the current Manchester United manager back at Ajax.
André Onana Is One Of The Best Goalkeepers Around But Is Still Prone To Errors
The Cameroonian stopper continued his excellent form in this encounter, keeping Burnley at bay by making two outstanding saves in the first period.
Widely lauded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football before a difficult first half of the season at Old Trafford, the former Ajax and Inter Milan player showed his very best here, taking part in build up with his elite distribution skills as well as making key saves.
That was until the 87th minute when a poor chest back by Casemiro caused the goalkeeper to panic and clear out a lurking Burnley striker, conceding a penalty which Zeki Amdouni duly converted to take two points off the home side.
Porous United Midfield
It has been a story of much of the season and it was again today. With Casemiro filling in at centre-back as the defensive injury crisis continues, the lack of mobility of Christian Eriksen in the middle of the park made the team even more liable to transitions, leading to Burnley having 16 attempts on the home goal.
Harry Maguire Solid Again
Featured in a positive light in the Five things we learnt piece following Wednesday’s win over Sheffield United, the English centre-back was once again solid and dependable at the back for the Red Devils, delivering a steady performance alongside Casemiro at the back and working hard to ensure the team had a dependable platform to build on.
Kobbie Mainoo Calm and Collected
There have been a number of them this season, but the 19-year-old put in yet another calm and composed performance in the middle of the park, making the team tick and giving off an aura of control that belies his tender years. If the team is to be rebuilt over the summer and the following transfer windows, the young Mancunian is reminding the powers that be – that he should be front and centre of their plans.
Manchester United face Crystal Palace next Monday, May 6 at Selhurst Park, kick-off is at 8PM.
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