Manchester United new boy Sofyan Amrabat showed exactly why Erik ten Hag brought him to Old Trafford in Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup third round clash against Crystal Palace.
The 27-year-old Moroccan midfielder, who joined the ranks at Old Trafford from Fiorentina this summer on a season-long loan with an option to buy, produced a very solid display on his full debut.
Ater making his Premier League debut off the bench against Burnley at the weekend, he started Tuesday’s game at left-back, despite being more known for his qualities as a defensive midfielder.
But that wasn’t a problem for Amrabat, who recorded a 96% pass accuracy in his 61 minute cameo after completing 83 out of 87 passes attempted.
He also won five out of six duels; a stat that will no doubt please United supporters after a far-from-convincing start to the campaign, especially in midfield areas.
Here’s how social media reacted to Amrabat’s display on Tuesday night.
One fan said: “Scott McTominay has completed 49 passes in 203 minutes for Manchester United this season. Sofyan Amrabat completed 65 passes in the first half vs Palace. Having a midfielder who actually wants the ball in an Erik ten Hag team is going to significantly improve that team.”
A second wrote: “Amrabat scanning before every touch, turning on the ball, and running into vacant space. He’s doing the literal basics and it’s going to change my life,” while a third commented: “So obvious how important Amrabat is going to be at Manchester United. Already looks the part.”
A fourth said: “Sofyan Amrabat, as far as first starts go, they don’t get much cooler and smoother than that. Retention, tenacity, energy and composure,” and a fifth added: “Amrabat looks like he would quite literally run through a brick wall if ten Hag asked him to.”
Ahead of kick-off, Erik ten Hag explained why he decided to play Amrabat at left-back.
“He has played full-back. Normally he plays in midfield, but he can do it,” Ten Hag told Sky Sports. “He will play where the manager needs him. He’s a warrior, he will do the job. That’s who Sofyan is.
“It’s his (full) debut so I’m really looking forward to it and he is really looking forward to it. He wants to play and give everything in the match.”
Thoughts on Amrabat’s performance against Palace?
