In brief
In the most spectacular manner possible, Manchester United defeated Lyon in the Europa League.
Despite losing 4-2 in extra time after blowing a 2-0 lead, the Red Devils prevailed 5-4.
After taking front stage, Ruben Amorim can’t ignore one Lyon star.
At Old Trafford on Thursday night, it was a tale of two halves as Manchester United defeated Lyon by three goals in second-half extra time to advance to the semi-final. This was one of the most bizarre Europa League games ever. Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot’s goals gave Ruben Amorim’s team a 2-0 lead at halftime as they capitalised on a fierce atmosphere to open the second leg with a bang.
Quick goals from Nicolas Tagliafico and Corentin Tolisso, who was subsequently sent off, altered the course of the match, which had appeared to be a fairly simple task just forty-five minutes earlier. As the second half progressed, the visitors silenced the home fans as they grew into the clash. Rayan Cherki and Alexandre Lacazette’s goals in extra time appeared to put Lyon through, but in stunning moments, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Harry Maguire completed their own comeback.
The Red Devils failed to contain a Lyon player who might have been the perfect fit for the United manager’s style for the second consecutive encounter, so regardless of the outcome, Amorim had one particular takeaway from the Theatre of Dreams that simply cannot be overlooked.
Rayan Cherki Impresses Again Versus Man United
The Frenchman showed glimpses of why he is one of the most exciting youngsters in Europe
The Ligue 1 team started with Rayan Cherki in attack following his late equaliser the week before, as Lyon chose an unchanged squad from the first leg draw. The 21-year-old was the centre of attention heading into the first match, and although he remained quiet for the most part, he did what all key players do and came on when it counted most to turn the tide of the match in his team’s favour.
Although he was somewhat muted at certain stages during the game, Cherki was nevertheless successful in the first leg when he played in the broader sections of the field. Although there is a lot of competition from Europe’s top teams abroad, there were murmurs of possible interest following the match.
The French under-21 international performed admirably, but he appeared to be an even bigger threat in Manchester since he played more centrally and showed valuable adaptability. Cherki frequently drove at the United defenders, and when paired with the playmaker, players like Patrick Dorgu and Leny Yoro occasionally appeared uncomfortable. He drove through the middle of the backline on one of his crazy runs, which almost resulted in the tournament’s goal, but a deft stop by Andre Onana prevented it.
But he wouldn’t be denied all night long as he would score what appeared to be the game-winning goal in extra time after taking advantage of a fast counterattack and shoddy United defence.
On paper, Amorim would want to see players like Alejandro Garnacho and Mason Mount put on a show like this. The wing-backs can spread the field while attempting to create an overload in and around the 18-yard box when the Portuguese coach uses two central number 10s on either side of the striker.
From his technical area, the United manager would have seen a player who, given the opportunity, might do wonders for him. And after seeing him up close, the 40-year-old must move quickly if he hopes to have a shot at guaranteeing the future of the rising star. It seems obvious that he should do everything in his power to get a deal.
United Fans Urge Amorim to Sign Cherki
Supporters believe the youngster’s talent cannot be ignored
United supporters quickly took to social media after seeing what looked like a game-winning performance to demand that Amorim reveal his cards and make a big offer for the young player. One fan said, “Cherki is just doing whatever he wants out there – what a magician.” Obtain his signature. “Don’t let Rayan Cherki leave the stadium,” someone else wrote. talent across generations.
A Cherki/Fernandes pairing was also being demanded by fans, with one fan stating, “I need to see Bruno Fernandes and Rayan Cherki play together before I die.”
One astute fan commented: “This is the system in full effect.” Others stated that Amorim’s system required players like Matheus Cunha of Wolves or Cherki. Now picture a Cunha or Cherki getting the ball in one of the tens. Or Delap running the channels, or an Ait Nouri/Frimpong going past the wide guys to generate the overload.”
