Manchester United faced a surprising setback on November 4, 2023, suffering a 1-0 defeat to Everton, who played with just ten men for the majority of the match. The loss marked a significant moment for United, as they had not lost to Everton at home in the Premier League in nearly a decade, with the last defeat occurring in 2013 under the management of Roberto Martinez. United’s manager, Ruben Amorim, expressed frustration as his team struggled to capitalize on the opportunity against a depleted Everton side.
The match began with high tension, as Everton’s tactical approach included a high defensive line and aggressive pressing. Early in the match, Harry Maguire and Matheus Cunha were sidelined due to injuries, leading to the inclusion of Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee in the starting lineup. Everton’s physicality was evident, with a notable off-the-ball incident involving James Tarkowski and Zirkzee, which resulted in a warning from referee Tony Harrington.
Things escalated dramatically when Idrissa Gana Gueye was sent off for slapping teammate Michael Keane, leaving Everton down to ten men. This moment shocked not only the players on the pitch but also the analysts observing from the press box. Bruno Fernandes, United’s captain, could only watch in disbelief as his team failed to take advantage of the situation.
Despite Everton’s numerical disadvantage, the visitors took the lead through a goal from Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. The strike exposed weaknesses in United’s defense, particularly the positioning of goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who failed to make a crucial save. United’s struggles in front of goal were underscored by their inability to score against a team that had not been prolific in recent fixtures.
With Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez back in the squad after injuries, there was hope for United to turn the tide. Martinez’s return was particularly significant, having been sidelined for nine months following a serious injury. The young talent Shea Lacey also made his debut in the senior squad, highlighting the club’s commitment to nurturing youth talent.
As the match progressed, United’s performance mirrored their struggles from the previous season. Despite Amorim’s tactical adjustments, including the introduction of Mason Mount, the team failed to find a rhythm. Fans voiced their frustration as the team squandered multiple opportunities to equalize, ultimately falling short against a resilient Everton side.
The defeat left United fans disheartened and raised questions about the team’s direction under Amorim. Historically, losing to a ten-man Everton team at Old Trafford was not acceptable, given the club’s ambitions for Champions League qualification. As the season continues, Amorim will need to address the evident issues within the squad and find a way to regain momentum.
At full time, Everton fans celebrated a rare victory at Old Trafford, while United’s players, including Fernandes, reflected on a disappointing performance. For David Moyes, the win on his 18th attempt at Old Trafford was a long-awaited triumph, further complicating United’s quest for consistency in the league. With matches coming thick and fast, Amorim faces the urgent task of regrouping his side to avoid further setbacks.
