“We Should Have Won That Game” – Goldbridge on Man United vs Arsenal | OneFootball

Manchester United 1-1 Arsenal: Goldbridge Unpacks United’s Tactical Battle

Manchester United and Arsenal played out a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in a game that carried significance beyond the Premier League table. Despite United being well off the pace for a top-four finish, the match offered a glimpse into their tactical evolution under Erik ten Hag. Mark Goldbridge, speaking on The United Stand, dissected the game, the performances, and the ongoing frustrations surrounding the club.

Fans, Protests, and Radcliffe’s Response

Before a ball was even kicked, the day belonged to the Manchester United supporters who gathered in large numbers to protest against the club’s ownership. Goldbridge was full of praise for those involved, stating, “Big, big Man of the Match award should be going to the fans who were at the protest today—thousands of them there, big statement.”

However, he was less convinced about its impact, referencing Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s apparent indifference: “Ratcliffe was laughing in the first half, so I don’t think they give a [ __ ] about the United fans at all.” The frustration with ownership remains a dominant theme among the fanbase, and moments like this only widen the divide.

United’s Tactical Approach: A Myth Debunked?

One of the most contentious topics among pundits and fans alike is whether Erik ten Hag’s system needs a fundamental change. Goldbridge firmly dismissed this notion, arguing that the approach is already adaptive:

“We don’t need to change the formation. The system changes within the formation. It’s a 3-4-3, but it can also be a 5-4-1. That’s why we beat Man City, that’s why we didn’t get beaten by Liverpool, and that’s why we’ve just not been beaten by the second-best team in England.”

Manchester United, despite having only 32% possession in the first half, managed to neutralise Arsenal’s attack for large parts of the game. “These low-IQ players love parking the bus and living on moments,” Goldbridge remarked, pointing out how defensive discipline has been the key to avoiding heavy defeats.

Defensive Resilience and Key Performers

While some had predicted a comfortable Arsenal win, United’s defensive setup held firm. Goldbridge highlighted several strong performances at the back:

Goldbridge also addressed the long-standing defensive issue of failing to mark midfield runners, a mistake that cost United when Declan Rice equalised: “How many goals over the last four years have we conceded from not marking midfielders on the edge of the box? This is criminal.”

Missed Chances and Harsh Realities

Despite the defensive structure working well, Manchester United were left ruing missed opportunities. David Raya produced three crucial saves, denying Bruno Fernandes, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui.

However, it was Rasmus Højlund who bore the brunt of the frustration, particularly for his failure to convert a late chance. Goldbridge didn’t hold back:

“Somebody in the chat said, ‘If I’m ever sentenced to death by firing squad, I hope Rasmus is firing the bullets.’”

While acknowledging the humour, Goldbridge remained pragmatic, stating, “We should have won that game. But what else are we going to do on Thursday? We don’t have anyone else.” With Anthony Martial injured and Marcus Rashford out of form, United’s attacking options remain limited.

Focus on the Europa League

Goldbridge ended on a clear message: the season hinges on Thursday’s Europa League tie. The Premier League campaign is effectively over in terms of aspirations, but European success remains a possibility.

“I can’t comprehend being out of the Europa League on Thursday. That’s all I’m thinking about.”

While the 1-1 draw against Arsenal was an improvement in terms of performance, the bigger test lies ahead. The question is: can United deliver when it truly matters?