Manchester United suffered their 15th Premier League loss of the season as Wolverhampton Wanderers secured a 1-0 victory with a superb free-kick from Pablo Sarabia.
Manager Ruben Amorim made five changes to the starting lineup following Thursday`s dramatic 5-4 win against Lyon, as United returned to Premier League action.
One of Amorim`s changes was handing a debut start to 20-year-old academy defender Tyler Fredricson in central defense.
Christian Eriksen, who struggled against Newcastle last Sunday, came closest to scoring for United in the first half with a free kick. However, both teams appeared lackluster in attack.
Rasmus Hojlund, the under-pressure striker, missed a good chance in the second half after failing to spot Kobbie Mainoo`s run.
Shortly after, Hojlund couldn`t connect with a cross from Alejandro Garnacho and was subsequently substituted for Chido Obi.
But Sarabia delivered a blow to United`s hopes with a stunning free-kick in the late stages of the game, finding the top corner past Andre Onana from 20 yards.
As a result, United dropped to 14th place in the Premier League, level on points with Wolves, and are facing the prospect of their lowest ever Premier League finish.
Here are SunSport`s Ken Lawrence`s player ratings for the Red Devils from Old Trafford on Easter Sunday.
ANDRE ONANA – 5
Onana might be given another chance next summer, although Ruben Amorim might prefer to sign a more dependable first-choice goalkeeper. However, the funds available for transfers need to be allocated elsewhere, suggesting that errors may continue. In this game, Onana wasn`t at fault, as no goalkeeper could have saved Sarabia`s brilliant 78th-minute free kick.
NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6
Deployed again as a central defender in a back three, the right-back looked composed. The Moroccan international is a reliable player, consistently getting his positioning and passing accurate, and rarely showing signs of panic. His defending has improved steadily, highlighted by an excellent timed tackle to dispossess Rayan Ait-Nouri when United`s defense was scattered.
VICTOR LINDELOF – 6
Captain for the game until Bruno Fernandes entered in the second half, Lindelof was solid in defense. With his contract expiring at the end of the season and having made only his fifth start since Ruben Amorim`s arrival in November, he is likely to leave. This performance was a good showcase for the Swedish center-back to potential future clubs, especially after West Ham`s interest in January.
TYLER FREDRICSON – 6
The academy graduate from South Manchester made his first-team debut and performed confidently. Playing on the left of a newly formed back three, he displayed composure and assurance. While Wolves didn`t pose a significant attacking threat until Sarabia`s goal, Fredricson showed promise for the future.
PATRICK DORGU – 6
The wing-back transitioned from the left to the right side but appeared equally effective. He delivered a great cross that Hojlund unfortunately couldn`t capitalize on. Signed for £25 million from Lecce in February, Dorgu has adapted well and continues to show potential to become a key player.
MANUEL UGARTE – 4
Ugarte was outmaneuvered multiple times in quick succession in the first half, even failing to commit a foul on Nelson Semedo during one sequence, highlighting his lack of pace. The £45 million signing from PSG last summer, the 24-year-old midfielder has shown flashes of quality but also inconsistency, as seen in this match.
CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6
Eriksen`s well-taken free kick forced a good save from Wolves` goalkeeper Dan Bentley, who replaced the injured Jose Sa at the last minute. The veteran Danish midfielder, who has announced his departure in the summer, demonstrated that he still has quality to offer. At 33, he may seek a less physically demanding league but his experience remains valuable.
HARRY AMASS – 8
Making only his second Premier League start, Amass looked comfortable and impressive, showing clever footwork and vision beyond his years. His early cross was excellent, and the 18-year-old is quickly becoming a fan favorite due to his commitment, work rate, and talent. He is undoubtedly a rising star, seemingly a natural left-wing back who might eventually play in a more advanced role.
