On The Ball | It’s not perfect, but there’s much to feel bright about if you’re a Manchester United fan
- United’s impressive wins against PSG and Leipzig in the Champions League are evidence of progress
- Ole Gunnar Solskjaer should be given time like Alex Ferguson, who finished in the league’s top-five once in his first five seasons
Within one week, Manchester United have beaten two of the best teams in the world.
The 2-1 win in Paris against Uefa Champions League finalists Paris Saint-Germain, diligent in its tactical diversity and deserved, delighted the fans – not that any could be there to see it. RB Leipzig, the Bundesliga toppers who went unbeaten away all of last season on their way to the Champions League semi-finals, were demolished 5-0 by United.
Both performances were exceptional – and unexpected. Both saw changes which were criticised before the game and praised afterwards. Indeed, United fans were full of doom when the Champions League draw was made: plenty predicted a quick return to the Europa League.
You don’t hear so much of that now after successive triumphs against the best teams in the group. Not only did United get back into the Champions League – to the relief of their accountants – but they’re doing well in it. United’s next two European matches are against Turkish champions Başakşehir Istanbul. Win one and draw one and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will have the 10 points he thinks will be enough to secure qualification to the knockout stage.
The Premier League table doesn’t make for such positive viewing for United and there are still major issues with rescheduling of games. Everton at home on Saturday, November 7, is now a 12:30pm kick-off, following the 9pm kick-off in Istanbul less than 60 hours before.
