Ruben Amorim admitted Manchester United showed a “different spirit” in their FA Cup third-round win over Arsenal on Sunday, compared to last month's Premier League loss to Arsenal.
united The team was beaten 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium in early December, conceding both goals from corner kicks. It marked the beginning of a difficult period for the team as their set-piece shortcomings were repeatedly exposed.
But Amorim's side started 2025 with a much-improved performance against Liverpool at Anfield and then got there. Arsenal were knocked out of the cup on penaltiesDespite playing for an hour with just ten men during extra time after Diogo Dalot was sent off.
“I think we played, especially in the first half, better than in the first game (against Arsenal). We were better at set-pieces, more aggressive. We showed a different spirit, even with ten men. We are improving.” This aspect,” he said.
“I think we faced a lot of difficulties at the beginning of the match to control the game with the ball and then we suffered. The chances were not great, but we struggled to run after the ball, especially to switch the play, to win the first pressure from Arsenal.
“But then we can take advantage of this moment, and take the game to a different level when we talk about aggression. And that is a very good thing. We were able to score and then I felt in that moment that we can improve with the ball.” But with (the player) being sent off, it was difficult for us, and after that we all struggled, defended very well, and had some chances. Arsenal.
“The players were really tired, but I felt from the first minute that today was our day. I also felt a connection with our fans and our staff. It was a very good day for us in that aspect. We need to improve.” The way we play football.”
