Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim is concerned over growing tension between striker Rasmus Hojlund and fullback Diego Dalot during Thursday’s Europa League draw against Real Sociedad.
Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim has expressed concern following his team’s 1-1 draw against Real Sociedad in the Round of 16 of the Europa League on Thursday.
Despite an early lead from Joshua Zirkzee, the match was equalized by Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty, leaving the Red Devils with more questions than answers heading into a crucial period of the season.
However, Amorim’s primary concern post-match wasn’t the result itself but rather the apparent tension between striker Rasmus Hojlund and fullback Diogo Dalot.
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Their on-field disagreements were noticeable, especially in the first half, where their relationship seemed to sour, with Hojlund visibly frustrated with Dalot’s decision-making.
A key moment of frustration occurred when Dalot raced down the right wing into an ideal position to deliver a cross to Hojlund, who had gotten ahead of his marker.
Instead of providing the early ball, Dalot hesitated, choosing to cut back instead of sending it into the box.
The delay allowed Sociedad’s defense to recover, and the promising attack ultimately fizzled out.
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Hojlund’s visible irritation was clear, and the incident seemed to highlight a disconnect between the two players.
Speaking after the match, Amorim acknowledged Dalot’s efforts but also pointed out that the fullback’s indecision in that moment had cost the team.
The Red Devils’ boss emphasized that Dalot’s hesitation was likely due to a lack of confidence in knowing whether Hojlund had the advantage in the box.
“I think it’s hard to say, but I’m just imagining Diogo doesn’t know for sure Rasmus has the advantage and he felt that he had a lot of time to think the play,” Amorim said in his post-match comments as quoted by Goal.com.
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“One thing for sure is they are really anxious to score goals and to win games, so they are doing all the best. And sometimes they want the best way in that position but are not deciding the best way in their position,” he added.
“It was a clear position; Rasmus did really well, Dalot did really well, the decision was not the best. The important thing is to move on and not fighting. Let’s move on to the next game.”
Despite the team’s best efforts, Hojlund’s struggles in front of goal continue.
The Danish striker is enduring a particularly frustrating period, having now gone 19 consecutive matches without scoring.
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Even more concerning, Hojlund failed to register a single shot on goal against Sociedad, which has led to growing questions about his form and his ability to make an impact when it matters most.
Looking ahead, Amorim will hope that the fallout between Hojlund and Dalot is merely a brief blip, as they enter a critical period of the season.
Manchester United’s next fixture is a challenging Premier League clash against Arsenal on Sunday at Old Trafford, followed by the return leg against Real Sociedad on March 13.