Sevilla vs Manchester United | 2022/23 EL | Three Crucial Things Learnt

We learnt three things as Manchester United crashed out of the Europa League after losing 5-2 on aggregate to six-time winners Sevilla, who secured their place in the semi-finals thanks to a 3-0 win in the second leg. In the first leg at Old Trafford last week, Erik ten Hag’s team took a commanding 2-0 lead, but were pegged back by two own-goals from Tyrell Malacia and Harry Maguire, finishing the game 2-2.

Manchester United, Sevilla — Image Obtained Via Sky Sports

However, the La Liga club completely dominated the second leg and capitalised on another Maguire mistake to take the lead in the first half. The home side further extended their lead after the break when Loic Bade converted from close range, and Youssef En-Nesyri added a third by putting the ball into an empty net after David de Gea’s mistake.

Manchester United have faced Sevilla in a major European competition more times without winning than any other side.

◎ 3 defeats
◎ 2 draws
◉ 0 wins

Their bogey side. 🟢 pic.twitter.com/cnwy5fKIYv

— Squawka (@Squawka) April 20, 2023

This marks the sixth consecutive season that Manchester United have been knocked out of an European competition by a Spanish opposition, with three of those defeats inflicted by Sevilla – in 2017-18, 2019-20, and 2022-23.

1. Ten Hag Unhappy With United’s Frequent Collapses

Erik ten Hag criticised his team for their unacceptable performance against the La Liga side and pointed out that they lacked determination, spirit, and the drive to win. Despite the individual mistakes made by Harry Maguire and David de Gea, the coach admitted that Sevilla were the better team and deserved to win against Manchester United.

Erik Ten Hag, Sevilla, Manchester United — Image Obtained via Keepup

The Dutchman emphasised the importance of learning from this experience and improving their performance in future matches. He highlighted the need for better starts, more passion, and composure on the ball, as well as the ability to bounce back from setbacks. He stressed that character and willingness to win are crucial factors for success, and their lack of it was unacceptable.

2. Maguire And De Gea With A Night To Forget

The Red Devils’ poor display in against the Spanish side was set off by Maguire’s early error, which led to Youssef En-Nesyri scoring the opening goal. Things only got worse for the visitors after the break when Loic Bade’s header looped in off the bar, and then De Gea’s howler gifted En-Nesyri his second.

David de Gea, Harry Maguire, Sevilla — Image Obtained Via GOAL

As United prepare for their Wembley showdown, manager Erik ten Hag has tried to instil confidence in his captain, despite the poor performance. However, De Gea’s contribution in all of the three goals conceded at the Estadio Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán will likely lead to questions about his future at the club. If the Red Devils decide not to renew his contract, he may have to look for a new club.

No Premier League player has made more errors leading to a goal across all competitions than David De Gea since the start of last season (5). 😬#UEL pic.twitter.com/4g3ld0CKW4

— Squawka Live (@Squawka_Live) April 20, 2023

3. United Look Tame Without Bruno Fernandes

The absence of Bruno Fernandes in midfield was heavily felt by Manchester United during their Europa League tie against Sevilla. The Portuguese maestro was suspended after receiving a harsh booking in the first leg.

Former United player, Paul Scholes, acknowledged the Portuguese’s importance to the team and pointed out that other leaders in the squad should have stepped up in his absence. Scholes emphasised that Fernandes is a vital player who has been in excellent form over the past few weeks.

Man United’s response to going 2-0 down at Sevilla was nonexistent and desperate, especially after Anthony Martial got substituted following an injury, making it even more challenging to stage a comeback. Ultimately, United failed to produce anything substantial, and instead, they compounded their misery with a poor performance.

Nevertheless, the Red Devils will have an opportunity to bounce back when they face Brighton & Hove Albion in the upcoming FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday.

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