In a disheartening conclusion to 2023, Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag's leadership, faced yet another setback with a 2-1 defeat against Nottingham Forest. Following their Boxing Day triumph against Aston Villa, this loss further emphasized the recurrent theme of false dawns plaguing the team.
Rasmus Hojlund's absence due to illness left United lacking attacking vigor in the first half, compounded by Forest's struggles to create noteworthy opportunities. Although Marcus Rashford salvaged an equalizer from a defensive error, a swift counter-attack allowed Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White to secure a home win.
The performance raises questions about United's attacking prowess, with individual player ratings reflecting the overall struggle. Antony and Rashford, in particular, faced criticism for predictability and wastefulness.
United's overall season record now stands at nine losses in the first 20 Premier League games, underscoring the challenges ahead for ten Hag's side.
