Man United 1 Wolves 1: Zirkzee scores, but familiar flaws cost United again

Manchester United’s inability to manage games resurfaced at Old Trafford as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Wolves, gifting the visitors only their third point of the season and squandering a clear opportunity to climb the Premier League table.

Joshua Zirkzee marked a year since his lowest moment at the club by scoring the opener, but his goal – deflected and unconvincing, did little to mask another disjointed United performance that showed lingering structural issues under Ruben Amorim.

Zirkzee moment fails to change narrative

Zirkzee’s opener in the 27th minute came after sustained pressure, with the striker benefiting from a deflection following Ayden Heaven’s driving run into the box.

It was a rare positive moment, but not a transformative one.

Despite the goal, United remained laboured and predictable in possession. Zirkzee, starting more through seniority than form, struggled to impose himself and was eventually substituted.

This drew a reaction from the crowd that underlined his uncertain standing at the club after a modest return since arriving.

Tactical choices hand Wolves control

Amorim’s decision to revert to a back three against Wolves’ matching system played directly into the visitors’ hands. Wolves were comfortable without the ball and repeatedly exposed United’s inability to break down compact shapes.

Wolves grew in confidence as the half progressed and were rewarded just before the break when Ladislav Krejci guided a header home from a corner, punishing United’s poor defensive organisation yet again.

Another missed opportunity compounds concerns

United improved marginally after switching shape in the second half, but Wolves continued to create the clearer chances.

Late pressure failed to yield a winner for United, with a disallowed goal in stoppage time summing up a frustrating night.