A surprisingly good way to end the season with Amorim’s squad beating Champions League chasing Aston Villa.
In the final game of an incredibly disappointing season, Amorim lined up a strong squad ahead of the clash with Aston Villa. The Red Devils began fast, Mason Mount making Emi Martinez work by testing the keeper with two quick strikes.
Chances came thick and fast for United, with the 16th placed team dominating every stat across the board. The game took at turn jut before half-time after Matty Cash’s lose back pass was intercepted by Rasmus Hojlund. The Dane showed great speed to get to the ball ahead of Emi Martinez, who could do nothing but take him out.
The Argentina #1 received a justified red card, leaving his team down to 10-men in what could be his last performance in Villa colours. United continued to push but could not break the deadlock.
Controversy came in the 73rd minute when Manchester United keeper Bayindir failed to gather the ball. Morgan Rogers tackled the goalkeeper before putting the ball in the back of the net. However, the referee blew for a foul before the ball crossed the line. So although the slow-motion replies were in Villa’s favour, VAR could not intervene and give the goal. The Aston Villa coach Unai Emery was understandably very animated on the touchline.
To make matters worse for the Villains, three minutes later Amad Diallo converts from Bruno Fernandes’s cross, making it 1-0 to United and knocking Villa out of the Champions League spots.
In the 87th minute, United were given a penalty after VAR intervention showed that Ian Maatsen’s challenge on Diallo was inside the penalty area. Christian Eriksen took charge and converted the penalty with his last contribution at the club.
The game finished 2-0, with Manchester United rising to 15th position and Aston Villa settling for a Europa League spot.
After the game Ruben Amorim apologised for a disappointing season and assured fans that United will be back. A promise that will hopefully be kept going into the 2025-26 season.
sampardoe.com 
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