Manchester United fans have been defending Diogo Dalot after the right0back found himself blamed for Atletico Madrid’s decisive goal in the Champions League on Tuesday.
United crashed out of Europe after falling to a 1-0 defeat at home to the Spanish champions at Old Trafford. Having drawn 1-1 at the Wanda Metropolitano three weeks ago, Diego Simeone’s side booked their place in the quarter-finals.
Renan Lodi’s header just before half-time proved enough for the visitors, who frustrated United thereafter with a resolute defensive display. The result ends any hopes of silverware for United this season as their focus turns back to their battle to finish in the Premier League’s top four.
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The manner in which United conceded on Tuesday has come under heavy scrutiny among fans. Lodi found himself in acres of space at the back post to head beyond David de Gea, with Dalot unaware the left-back had made his way into the penalty area.
Plenty of United fans, however, argued that the blame should lie elsewhere. Harry Maguire and Anthony Elanga in particular have come in for criticism for their part in the goal, which ultimately sealed the hosts’ fate.
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Having exited the Champions League, United’s only hope of salvaging something from their disappointing season lies in the ongoing battle for fourth. They currently sit a point behind Arsenal, who still hold three games in hand.
The Gunners play one of those games this week as they host Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium. United meanwhile are not in action again until April 2, when they take on Leicester.
