Manchester United will definitely rue missing out on Alderweireld
It was another horrendous evening for Jose Mourinho and Manchester United as they succumbed to a second consecutive loss. The Red Devils were unable to breach a rampant Tottenham Hotspur side that racked up three goals without a reply at Old Trafford.
Jose Mourinho cut a frustrated figure and an even more demeaning one during the post-match press conference that saw the Portuguese manager storm out. Things have been looking very bad for Manchester United and it could get worse if they fail to act swiftly.
But it was a superb performance from Tottenham Hotspur on the night and especially from defender Toby Alderweireld. The £75,000-a-week defender was linked with a move to Manchester United all summer but ultimately decided to stay put with Tottenham (h/t Metro).
Alderweireld was the best Tottenham player on the field. The centre-back was dominant and commanding inside his own half. The Belgian completed a total of 40 passes, which was the most by any defender on the field. (Stats Courtesy – Squawka)
Alderweireld was a stalwart at the back and if it wasn’t for his flawless performance, United might have pegged one or two back. The former Southampton defender ensured he kept Jesse Lingard and Romelu Lukaku at bay.
Lukaku scuppered a number of chances, with Alderweireld pressing him early on and forcing him to make mistakes. Between one Belgian and another, Alderweireld won the personal duel.
His tackles and interceptions were timed to perfection, while he also safely played out from the back. Alderweireld also made the most number of interceptions, tackles and clearances than any other defender on the field. (Stats Courtesy – Squawka)
He was dominant in the air, heading out a number of dangerous deliveries that were sent into the box. The Belgian was also very vocal throughout the game, commanding his teammates when needed.
While Manchester United’s backline was fragile and sloppy throughout the game, Spurs showed true resilience and endurance to hold onto their lead. The Red Devils will certainly rue not signing the Belgian when they had the chance. And with the sort of atmosphere and vibe around Old Trafford at the moment, it looks like Man United have missed a trick in not signing Toby Alderweireld.