Man Utd players 'anxious' to score as Ruben Amorim criticises players' decisions after Diogo Dalot leaves Rasmus Hojlund fuming during Real Sociedad draw

United were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie as Joshua Zirkzee's opener was cancelled out by Mikel Oyarzabal from the spot. The attack once again looked disjointed, with limited chances created in the first half. One of the most frustrating moments came when Diogo Dalot galloped down the right wing and found himself in a prime position to deliver a cross to Rasmus Hojlund, who had managed to get ahead of his marker. However, rather than sending in an early delivery, Dalot hesitated, opting to cut back instead of playing the ball into the area, much to the Danish striker's frustration. This delay gave Sociedad’s defense enough time to recover, causing the attack to fizzle out.

Speaking after the game, Amorim acknowledged Dalot’s effort but emphasised that the full-back should have been more decisive.

"I think it’s hard to say but I’m just imagining Diogo doesn’t know for sure Rasmus has the advantage and he felt that he had a lot of time to think the play," the manager told reporters.

"One thing for sure is they are really anxious to score goals and to win games so they are doing all the best. And sometimes they want the best way in that position but are not deciding the best way in their position. Was a clear position, Rasmus did really well, Dalot did really well, the decision was not the best, the important thing is to move on and not fighting. Let’s move on to the next game."

Despite putting in his best efforts, Hojlund endured yet another frustrating evening in front of goal. The Danish forward has now gone 19 consecutive matches without scoring, failing to register a single shot against Sociedad. However, Amorim remains optimistic about the 22-year-old’s potential, encouraging him to stay patient.

"He is trying really hard, he gave everything, he made the runs," he said. "We know that Sociedad has the high line, he uses his pace to win and to fight. And the other thing is he’s going to appear in the right moment, he has to continue to play and not be anxious. In that position with Diogo, he did a great run, was in position, sometimes the ball comes, sometimes it doesn’t. So he needs to think in the next way and in the next game."

United’s draw against Sociedad means they will need to step up their performance in the second leg at Old Trafford if they want to advance in the competition. Their struggles against Spanish clubs in Europe have been well-documented, with their last six knockout eliminations coming at the hands of La Liga sides.

However, before their crucial return leg, United must turn their attention to a high-stakes Premier League showdown against Arsenal this weekend. With their domestic campaign faltering, a positive result against the Gunners could provide a much-needed confidence boost before their European clash.