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.
This story is from the November 08, 2024 edition of The Independent.
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This story is from the November 08, 2024 edition of The Independent.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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