Manchester United’s woes continue as Wolverhampton stalled their winning run at Old Trafford. Fred provided the opener to pave the way for another victory, yet Joao Moutinho delivered a superb goal to hold United 1-1. This draw came after three straight victories for United leaving them 8 points behind league leaders Liverpool.
Jose Mourinho clearly did not look happy with the performance of his team. The Portuguese manager slammed his players for being too ‘relaxed’ compared to Wolves who, according to him, were treating the match like a ‘World Cup final.’
“Not a good performance, not a good result,” he declared later in the news conference. His stronger reaction this time is in contrast with the last when his side lost against Spurs at home. In fact, the Portuguese manager had praised the team last time for their efforts.
As for the home crowd, it was not a pleasing sight. However, they at least could enjoy the sight of their former legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson who went through a brain operation in May this year.
From the beginning, Wolves played well and did not look like a recently promoted team. In just the opening 15 minutes, they created 3 goal-scoring opportunities from which Willy Boly’s header was quite notable. However, it was United who took the lead when Paul Pogba’s brilliant pass was driven home by Fred. With this goal, United looked to be heading towards another victory.
Wolves were not going to give up on the match though as they continued to play composed and intelligent football. Their reward came in the second half when Joao Moutinho fired a goal past the United’s keeper after being teed-up by Raul Jimenez.
Since plenty of time was remaining, United could have got back in the game. However, the Red Devils could not alter the fate of the game despite Mourinho making 3 substitutions. Both the noteworthy efforts by Jesse Lingard and Marouane Fellaini were thwarted by Wolves keeper Rui Patricio. Even Lukaku could not come up with anything special to get the 3-points for his team.
Now criticisms will once again be directed towards Mourinho who seemed to have got a respite after 3 straight victories. If he really wants to challenge Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea for the league title, he might want to bring his team up to a whole next level.
His side will now face Derby County in the EFL Cup.