With just three minutes left on the clock at Craven Cottage, Manchester United turned once again to Harry Maguire as a late substitute.
The 32-year-old centre-back, who has repeatedly been used in these high-pressure moments, was sent on in search of a decisive goal, just as he had been in the recent defeat to Arsenal at Old Trafford.
Seconds after entering the pitch, Maguire almost made an immediate impact, heading a corner from Bryan Mbeumo narrowly wide.
It’s clear that United managers, past and present, see him as a reliable aerial threat in the opponent’s box when time is running out.
Summer Signings and Bench Dynamics
Despite United splashing more than £200 million on forwards Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha this summer, some options were left on the sidelines.
Joshua Zirkzee and attacking midfielder Kobbie Mainoo watched the game from the bench, unused yet undoubtedly eager for a chance.
It would have been fascinating to overhear their post-match conversations, wondering how they processed yet another game without minutes on the pitch.
Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund, sidelined since Sesko’s arrival, was likely itching to prove his worth to the coaching staff.
Amorim’s Tactical Choices
Manager Ruben Amorim opted for a reshuffled attack, placing Mason Mount as a false nine flanked by Cunha and Mbeumo.
Mount did win a penalty that Bruno Fernandes failed to convert, then dropped deeper into midfield after Sesko replaced Casemiro early in the second half.
Although Cunha hit the post and Mbeumo was lively, the game’s eventual goal came from a header by defender Leny Yoro that deflected off Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz.
Sesko barely touched the ball, highlighting the unpredictability of United’s attack despite their high-profile summer investments.
Amorim Stresses Adaptation and Patience
Reflecting on Sesko’s adjustment to the Premier League, Amorim acknowledged the challenges of adapting to the faster pace.
“He needs time. It’s not easy. He’s understanding that the game is faster than the Bundesliga, but he’s fighting.
When he was on the pitch, we weren’t at our best moment, and that can change how you see a player.”
Amorim emphasized that the team is generating plenty of chances and that the focus remains on creating opportunities and scoring goals, even if the timing and personnel choices require tweaking from match to match.
Future Uncertainty for Fringe Players
Hojlund is expected to leave before the transfer window closes, with Napoli reportedly interested.
Meanwhile, Zirkzee and Mainoo may also be weighing their futures at Old Trafford.
The situation is complicated for Mainoo, whose contract impasse has lingered for a year.
Being left out of the first two matches does little to improve his prospects, especially with Fernandes now operating in midfield, effectively occupying one of the positions Mainoo might have fought for.
“He’s fighting for the position now with Bruno, as it should be at Manchester United,” Amorim said.
But with Mbeumo and Cunha firmly established in the squad and Fernandes taking up midfield duties, it doesn’t look like Mainoo’s battle for minutes will be an easy one.
