Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge felt like more than just another loss—it was another chapter in a season slipping away.
The ground has been a graveyard for them since 2020, and Friday night offered no redemption. There was no spark up front, no glimmer of inspiration.
Rasmus Højlund, once touted as United’s long-term striking solution, cut an isolated, ineffective figure. He registered no shots on target, managed just one dribble, won only two duels, and surrendered possession 13 times. His performance didn’t ignite hope—it whispered for change.
Roy Keane, never one to hold back, delivered his verdict on Sky Sports with trademark bluntness. He claimed Højlund “looked like he’d just come out of the academy,” dismantling the young Dane’s timing, movement, and hold-up play before concluding, “They’ve got no striker.” It was the kind of assessment that resonates because it’s hard to dispute.
Yet, under the watchful eyes of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada, and Jason Wilcox, manager Ruben Amorim stood firm.
But statistics tell their own story—four league goals all season is a return far below what United need if they’re to compete at the highest level.
This defeat also confirmed a historic low: United will finish the Premier League campaign without recording back-to-back wins for the first time ever. Since April, they have collected just two points—the poorest run in the division—while final-day opponents Aston Villa have racked up 21.
Now, all eyes turn to the Europa League final.
For Højlund, it’s a chance to silence critics—or prove them right.