Casemiro’s goal with 21 minutes remaining cut the gap in half, but the equalizer did not last and Leeds held on to secure an important victory. It was a deserved defeat for Michael Carrick’s side. They were far from their best and couldn’t get anything out of the game.
Their dismal performance revealed that two players in particular were not good enough for United and should be moved on in the summer.
Manuel Ugarte was given a rare start in midfield, as Koby Mainu left the game due to an injury in training. But it has been clear for some time that he is not yet fully fit, and that was painfully clear against Leeds.
It’s often hard to notice Ugarte while playing, considering he does little in the middle of the park. He did little Monday night, but there’s no reason to believe that will change in the near future.
It is no coincidence that they have played in 10 league games this season, with a record that includes six losses and one draw against all promoted teams, but have only won one.
Ugarte has won just six games for United since joining more than a year and a half ago, and some may argue he should not play for the club again. If they can find a signing, the 25-year-old should be their first choice at the end of the season.
Nousair Mazraoui was also one of United’s worst performers against Leeds. His performance was summed up by a ferocious attack that went high and wide from outside the box.
The defender has rarely impressed for the Red Devils and is well behind Diogo Dalot in the pecking order, which says a lot considering how frustrating Dalot usually is.
Right-back has been a problem area for United for some time and they should aim to improve by releasing Mazraoui in the summer and signing a better player.
Despite a poor result against Leeds, they secured a top-five finish and are firmly on track to qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Players like Ugarte and Mazraoui certainly won’t work at that level and will need to be sold in the coming months.
