The Red Devils booked their place on the final matchday of the Premier League.
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has lauded his players following the 2-0 win over Leicester City in the final match of the Premier League this season. The fixture was touted as a must-win situation for the Red Devils – a draw was also sufficient – to keep their UCL hopes alive. Following a bleak first half, Man Utd opened the scoring thanks to the penalty goal from Bruno Fernandes. Jesse Lingard scored the winner in the injury time, throwing a dagger in the Foxes’ heart. The win means that United have sealed their spot for the Champions League next term alongside Chelsea, who also confirmed their status simultaneously by drafting Wolves.
Following the win, Solskjaer was on cloud nine, stating that the victory was a wonderful achievement.
It’s a wonderful achievement by everyone. Today wasn’t a classic, but that doesn’t matter, but we need to learn to win these games that we need a result in,” The Norwegian manager said. (h/t Goal.com)
Solskjaer also pointed out the pressure created by the quick round of fixtures since the return from Pandemic break despite the Red Devils getting the desired result in the end.
He added,
“It’s been like a mini-tournament since the restart, and you can see it. We’ve been a bit tired, leggy.
“I think the boys have completed a great achievement. You know where we were earlier in the season, so to end up third is a fantastic achievement.
“Champions League qualification means better opposition next year and big games. That’s what these players need.”
United’s form since the return of Premier League had been brilliant, not losing any matches while showcasing an entertaining football, guided by the likes of Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, with the latter one impacting the games on his own. The Portuguese star has become a fan favourite in the space of fewer than three months while being the creative hub of the Red Devils alongside the revamped Paul Pogba.
United are currently looking in high spirits and will try to translate the current form to the Europa League as they will face Lask in the second leg of the knockouts next month. United lead the aggregate score 5-0.
Solskjaer also looks to bring in on some prolific names to Old Trafford this summer, having ensured the UCL qualification.
