Amorim’s team concedes the first goal in the sixth consecutive game

Manchester United’s set-piece weaknesses were on display again when Dean Huijsen put Bournemouth ahead in the 30th minute at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

Ryan Christie’s free-kick found defender Huijsen at the back post, who headed past goalkeeper Andrea Onana to put the Cherries on course for a fourth win in their five-game unbeaten run.

“What a start for Bournemouth,” former Manchester City midfielder Michael Brown told BBC Radio 5 Live. “They could just throw it in – they didn’t have to do too much. Dean Huijsen just glances and it wanders into the far top corner.”

Just a relaxed guy scoring goals at Old Trafford 🍒 pic.twitter.com/UnnyCpseIb

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 22, 2024

Man United vs Bournemouth: Huijsen goal

Bournemouth started strongly before going ahead, although United twice went close through Bruno Fernandes as half-time approached.

Kepa Arrizabalaga denied the United captain with a fine save, while the Portuguese playmaker sent another shot wide.

United have now conceded the first goal in each of their last six matches under new manager Ruben Amorim, who left striker Marcus Rashford out of his squad for the game for the third game in a row.

Tottenham, Manchester City, Viktoria Plzen, Nottingham Forest and Arsenal scored the opening goals in Amorim’s previous five games in charge.

Among six changes from their 4-3 Carabao Cup final defeat at Tottenham on Thursday, Joshua Zirkzee replaced Rasmus Hojlund in attack and full-back Tyrell Malacia makes his second league appearance of the season.

“It’s my decision, I want to see the best from my players” 💬

Ruben Amorim comments on the omission of Marcus Rashford from the team 🔴 pic.twitter.com/dLiBMEPBA3

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 22, 2024

Premier League table

The Red Devils started the day in 13th but knew they could rise above Bournemouth with a second straight league win following a late 2-1 triumph at Manchester City the previous Sunday.

The Cherries, meanwhile, would climb to fifth place with three points, leapfrogging Aston Villa and reigning champions Manchester City.

Manager Andoni Iraola decided to hand midfielder Tyler Adams his fifth start in 10 league games since his return from a back injury in mid-October.

The American international came on for Lewis Cook as his side claimed a third successive away win, following wins at Wolves and Ipswich Town.