Misfiring Man Utd's forward trio to solve all problems for just £28m

Manchester United may have salvaged a 2-2 draw against Everton on Saturday, but their performance exposed a glaring issue.

Despite goals from Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte in the second half, United had looked lifeless for much of the match, trailing 2-0 at halftime after Beto and Abdoulaye Doucoure capitalized on defensive lapses.

While their backline was shaky, it was United’s attacking display that was most concerning. Ruben Amorim’s side once again lacked a cutting edge in the final third, making life far too easy for Everton’s defence—especially in the first half.

With Rasmus Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee, and Fernandes leading the attack, United offered little threat.

In fact, left wing-back Patrick Dorgu was their most dangerous player going forward. The lack of creativity was reflected in the numbers: United registered an xG of just 0.45 compared to Everton’s 2.05.

The Toffees created four clear-cut chances and had eight shots on target, while United managed just three shots on goal and one clear-cut opportunity.

This isn’t just a one-off issue. United have scored only 30 goals in 26 Premier League matches—the fifth-lowest tally in the division. For a club of their stature, that is simply unacceptable, and Amorim must urgently find a solution.

Ironically, a blueprint for a more effective attack can be found at Aston Villa. Unai Emery’s side secured a 2-1 win over Chelsea on Saturday, thanks to an attacking trio that United could have assembled for just £28 million.

Marcus Rashford, currently on loan at Villa from United, was instrumental in their comeback, providing assists for both goals. The first came when he set up Marco Asensio, who slotted home from close range.

The Spaniard then netted again late in the match. Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins, another key component of Villa’s frontline, has been in fine form, scoring twice in his last three appearances.

What’s frustrating for United fans is that they could have had all three players without breaking the bank. Rashford, an academy graduate, is already on their books.

Asensio, who joined Villa on loan from PSG, has long been linked with a move to Old Trafford. And Watkins, who cost Villa £28 million when he signed from Brentford in 2020, was once an affordable target for United.

Now, as United continue to struggle in front of goal, their failure to act on such opportunities is all the more glaring. Instead of languishing with an ineffective frontline, they could have built a dynamic attacking trio—one that is now thriving elsewhere.