But it was 380 days since Manchester United had tasted victory against foreign opposition. Now, finally, they have.
That year-long wait had formed one of the damning statistics that engulfed Erik ten Hag towards the end of his reign. After arguably United’s worst ever European campaign last season – certainly among those to feature a group stage – came a trio of draws. Ruud van Nistelrooy as at least succeeded where Ten Hag had failed, chalking up a Europa League triumph at the first time of asking, even if his victims are winless in this competition.
Amad Diallo struck twice and starred to defeat PAOK. It may prove a timely display of excellence, with a new manager to impress. It gave a belated kickstart to United’s Europa League campaign. They rise to the dizzying heights of 15th. Ruben Amorim will trade a club second in the Champions League for one rather lower in the junior competition but at least with the table looking a little less ignominious.
United’s record on the continent still requires plenty of improvement. It was just their second win in 12 European games; the other still required an injury-time penalty save from Andre Onana. Whereas Ten Hag’s debut season featured a wonderful win over Barcelona, United have been European underachievers for 19 months. Some would say they have been since the 2011 Champions League final.
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