Joe Willock Excited by Unai Emery's Faith in Arsenal Youngsters After UEL Win
Oct 4, 2019
Arsenal midfielder Joe Willock has praised Unai Emery's willingness to play youngsters following the club's 4-0 UEFA Europa League win over Standard Liege on Thursday.
Willock, 20, started and was among the scorers at the Emirates Stadium, where 18-year-old Gabriel Martinelli netted a brace and loan signing Dani Ceballos bagged his first goal for the club.
The Gunners opened a three-point gap at the top of Group F following the win, and Willock told reporters what it means to have a manager who shows faith in developing talents: "It's very exciting because we have a manager who wants to play youngsters. You just have to take every opportunity, try to work hard and try to make a difference. It's so exciting at the moment."
Willock has now scored six senior goals for Arsenal in 26 first-team appearances, though it was Brazilian teenager Martinelli who grabbed most attention following his two goals and an assist:
The creative trio of Willock, Reiss Nelson and Ainsley Maitland-Niles each graduated from the Arsenal academy, while Shkodran Mustafi, 27, was the only outfield player in Thursday's team over 24 years of age.
Though he might be young, Willock is providing much-needed impetus in the Arsenal midfield, said Simon Collings of the Evening Standard:
Emery didn't demonstrate much favour towards youth at former clubs Sevilla and Paris Saint-Germain. However, there is an expectation at Arsenal that the north London club will promote a certain amount of young talent.
Matteo Guendouzi, 20, has become a firm fixture in Emery's regular XI despite his age, while 18-year-old winger Buakyo Saka has recently broken into the first team in the Premier League.
Willock received a standing ovation from the Emirates crowd when he left the pitch, per journalist Layth Yousif:
Joe Willock receives a rousing round of applause from Arsenal fans here at the Emirates as he is replaced by Matteo Guendouzi with the Gunners 4-0 up over Standard Liege with 17 minutes remaining
It's not as if the manager doesn't have more experienced assets available. Mesut Ozil has made one start for the club this season, and Emery told reporters there were others in the squad more deserving when asked why the German was omitted from Thursday's lineup:
Willock, Martinelli and others are making good use of the opportunities afforded to them by Emery and will hope to have an impact when Arsenal host Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday.
Top Winners and Losers After Europa League 2019 Matchday 2 Results
Oct 3, 2019
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 03: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring 1st goal during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Standard Liege at Emirates Stadium on October 3, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Arsenal's future may be the biggest winner after the second matchday of the 2019/20 UEFA Europa League, given the way Kieran Tierney and Gabriel Martinelli starred during a 4-0 win over Standard Liege.
The Gunners seized firm control of Group F at the Emirates Stadium thanks to Martinelli's two goals. He combined brilliantly with left-back Tierney, whose energy and crossing offered a tantalising glimpse of what he'll do to improve Arsenal at both ends of the pitch once he's fully fit.
Head coach Unai Emery would have been pleased by what he saw. Emery can also afford himself a wry smile after his decision to once again omit Mesut Ozil from the squad paid off.
Many Arsenal supporters haven't warmed to the Spaniard's treatment of the club's highest-earner, but the Gunners are beginning to show they may not need Ozil to become a force in Europe again.
Emery's old club, Sevilla, are already a force in this competition and have added a striker undergoing a rebirth in the form of Javier Hernandez. The Mexico international has regained his swagger since leaving West Ham United and proved the difference as Sevilla beat APOEL Nicosia in Group A.
Top spot in the standings eludes Manchester United after a soporific 0-0 draw away to AZ Alkmaar in Group L. United's continuing inability to create chances and show even a hint of impetus to do so, is piling the pressure on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who is beginning to look out of his depth in a job nobody has mastered since Sir Alex Ferguson called it quits in 2013.
Thursday Results
Astana 1-2 Partizan Belgrade
Young Boys 2-1 Rangers
Feyenoord 2-0 Porto
CSKA Moscow 0-2 Espanyol
Ferencvaros 0-3 Ludogorets
St-Etienne 1-1 Wolfsburg
Oleksandriya 1-1 Gent
Istanbul Basaksehir 1-1 Borussia Monchengladbach
Wolfsberg 1-1 AS Roma
Besiktas 0-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers
Braga 2-2 Slovan Bratislava
AZ Alkmaar 0-0 Manchester United
Sevilla 1-0 APOEL Nicosia
Dudelange 1-4 Qarabag
Malmo 1-1 FC Copenhagen
Lugano 0-0 Dynamo Kiev
Trabzonspor 2-2 Basel
Krasnodar 1-2 Getafe
Sporting CP 2-1 LASK
Rosenborg 1-4 PSV Eindhoven
Celtic 2-0 Cluj
Lazio 2-1 Rennes
Arsenal 4-0 Standard Liege
Vitoria 0-1 Eintracht Frankfurt
Winners: Gabriel Martinelli and Kieran Tierney
Martinelli is just 18 and is making a big step up from the regional levels of Brazilian football. However, he's already left people in no doubt he knows where the net is.
The teenager scored twice in the first 16 minutes, showcasing the timing and movement of a natural predator in the area. Martinelli's first goal, a deft header to convert Tierney's precise cross, should answer any doubts about the former Ituano prospect's ability to operate as a centre-forward.
Arsenal need goals in support of regular strikers Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. The Gunners are getting them from an exciting and youthful talent who added a brace to the two goals he netted against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup recently.
4 goals in 2 games ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️
The youngest player to net 2+ goals in a major European game for Arsenal 👏
Martinelli's assist for Dani Ceballos' first Arsenal goal also showed off the link play that proves the South American will be able to lead the line when called on. Arsenal's strength in depth at the heart of attack looked weak when Eddie Nketiah was loaned to Leeds United, but Martinelli's rapid start has changed the picture completely.
As good as Martinelli was on the night, Tierney's masterclass may have been more exciting. The defender signed from Celtic in the summer has been working his way back from injury and had only previously featured in a dynamic cameo against Forest.
Based on his full showing against Liege, Tierney is going to be a major asset for Arsenal's chances of winning a first piece of European silverware since 1994.
He was everything Sead Kolasinac isn't from the left-back berth. Specifically, Tierney made better use of the ball in attacking areas, starting with his assist:
It was just one from a collection of exquisite deliveries from a player who often took the chance to cross first-time. More importantly, Tierney looked up, take note Kolasinac, to make sure he chose the best option.
This isn't just a full-back able and willing to get forward. Tierney is a raiding menace on the overlap with the technique and vision to punish defences foolish enough to let him run free:
Kieran Tierney’s game by numbers vs. Standard Liège:
93% pass accuracy 7 ball recoveries 4 chances created 3/4 tackles won 2/2 take-ons 1 assist
Given how Emery wants a more aggressive and athletic team able to press and defend from the front, Tierney is the ideal weapon to help his blueprint finally take shape.
Loser: Mesut Ozil
Emery has left himself open to criticism by his consistent heavy-handed treatment of a player he's never truly fancied. Ozil wasn't involved during the 3-2 win over Aston Villa, nor the 1-1 draw with United, in the Premier League, and the languid No. 10 didn't feature in a winnable home fixture in Europe.
The latest omission sent one clear message to Ozil, he's not wanted by the man in the dugout. It's a divisive decision from Emery because leaving Ozil out in the cold robs Arsenal of the most creative player in the squad.
Mesut Özil created six chances in 71 minutes against Nottingham Forest, more than any other player on the pitch.
The fact remains though Emery wants a team defined more by physicality than grace. He wants tenacious runners who will hunt for and win the ball in packs.
Tenacity has never been high on the list of Ozil's attributes. He looks increasingly like a player out of sync with the remodelled Arsenal being built in the Emery era.
Based on how players such as academy graduate Joe Willock and Real Madrid loanee Dani Ceballos, both scorers on the night, justified Emery's selections, it's difficult to see how or when Ozil can force his way back into the mix.
Winner: Javier Hernandez
What a difference a few months makes in football. Javier Hernandez began the season thinking he was set for a backup role in West Ham's striking department.
Yet a move to Sevilla, the site of many great reclamation projects in the European game in recent years, has given Hernandez a new lease of life. The former United marksman netted his second goal in as many Europa League matches to offer a reminder of his quality as a finisher.
Hernandez is one of the more experienced and accomplished strikers in the competition. The 31-year-old's instincts and big-game temperament could be the key to helping Julen Lopetegui add yet another of these trophies to the Sevilla cabinet.
Loser: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
Solskjaer has often been fond of talking about the so-called "United way." It's a catch-all phrase for attacking football and an insatiable appetite for goals, two hallmarks of the club's proud history.
Unfortunately for United supporters, those things have deserted the team since Solskjaer took over. There were warning signs his early magic as manager had worn off toward the end of last season, but the nadir was surely reached in Alkmaar after the Red Devils barely mustered a whimper in the final third:
Manchester United failed to have a single shot on target vs. AZ Alkmaar.
Injuries to striker Anthony Martial and playmaker Paul Pogba may have offered mitigation for Solskajer, but there was still little excuse for such a drab showing given the team he started in the Netherlands:
10 away games without a win for Manchester United. Their worst run since 1989.
Tonight, they started with an older team than AZ Alkmaar, costing £249m to put together.
Not a bad result for #mufc, though it won't feel it. Alkmaar arguably toughest away game in Europa and they had some tedious nights like that under Ferguson. Bigger picture is it's 18 goals in 20 games when Solskjaer has been in permanent charge.
The fact is former youth prospects like Marcus Rashford don't look up to the grade required. Meanwhile, big-money buys such as Fred, Nemanja Matic and Juan Mata have rarely justified the fees.
Solskjaer is suffering for the slew of poor transfers that have left United a shell of the club's former glories. He's likely to pay a heavy price for past failures before the season ends.
Gabriel Martinelli Scores Twice as Arsenal Blank Standard Liege in Europa League
Oct 3, 2019
Arsenal cruised to a 4-0victory on Thursday against Standard Liege in Group F of the UEFA Europa League.
Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring for the Gunners after 13 minutes and claimed a second just three minutes later.
Joe Willock made it 3-0 after 22 minutes, with the visitors appearing down and out before the interval.
Dani Ceballos combined with Martinelli for a fourth after 57 minutes, and Arsenal strutted to victory during an impressive team display.
It was an easy night for Unai Emery's team, with his young guns showing off their long-term potential.
Brazilian Martinelli celebrated another start with a magnificent brace, and the 18-year-old could force his way into Emery's Premier League starting XI.
Kieran Tierney's sumptuous cross was met by Martinelli early in the match, and the striker glanced his header past goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, per BT Sport (h/t Arsenal's official Twitter account).
Emery's team were clearly in the mood, and Willock added his name to the scoresheet. The 20-year-old was cool and calm in the box as the ball deflected to his feet, and the midfielder passed the ball home to make it three goals for the hosts in only 22 minutes.
There was a relaxed feeling at the Emirates Stadium, and Martinelli continued to punish Liege in the second half.
The Brazilian turned provider to contribute to Arsenal's fourth, dancing to the byline and providing a chipped cross for Ceballos to flick home from close range.
Emery introduced Nicolas Pepe midway through the second half, and the forward saw plenty of the ball in the closing stages.
Martinelli was unlucky not to gain his hat-trick before the final whistle, but the forward has proved he can be a star of the future for the Gunners.
What's Next
Both teams are back in domestic action on Sunday. Arsenal host Bournemouth in the Premier League, and Liege travel to Royal Antwerp in the Belgian First Division A.
Europa League 2019: Latest Tables, Top Scorers After Thursday's Group Results
Oct 3, 2019
Manchester United's Marcus Rashford is tackled by Alkmaar's Stijn Wuytens during the group L Europa League soccer match between AZ Alkmaar and Manchester United at the ADO Den Haag stadium in The Hague, Netherlands, Thursday, Oct. 3, 2019. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)
Manchester United claimed a point at AZ Alkmaar on Thursday after a goalless draw in the UEFA Europa League.
Arsenal thrashed Standard Liege 4-0 during a convincing display in London.
Wolverhampton Wanderers earned an impressive 1-0 win on the road against Turkish giants Besiktas.
Roma collected a 1-1 draw away to Austrian side Wolfsberger AC, and Feyenoord defeated Porto 2-0.
It was a tough night for United in the Netherlands, with AZ dominating for long spells.
Paul Pogba was not risked on the artificial surface at the Cars Jeans Stadion after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer bemoaned the poor quality of the pitch before the fixture.
DEN HAAG, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 3: Fredrik Midtsjo of AZ Alkmaar, Brandon Williams of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League match between AZ Alkmaar v Manchester United at the Cars Jeans Stadium on October 3, 2019 in Den Haag Netherlands (Pho
Brandon Williams was handed a debut for United after Solskjaer made eight changes from his team that started in the 1-1 Premier League draw against Arsenal. Angel Gomes and Mason Greenwood also started, but the visitors struggled to create throughout.
Myron Boadu thought he had earned an 11th-minute lead for AZ after finishing past David De Gea, but the forward was ruled clearly offside.
United were clean and tidy with the ball at their feet, but the English giants lacked a cutting edge whenever they advanced forward.
TV presenter Jake Humphrey tweeted his verdict on United:
Maybe instead of being shocked by how average #ManchesterUnited have become, let’s just realise this is now their level...
Oh, and when you tell me to ‘be patient they are young’...the AZ Alkmaar team are, on average, a year younger. Feel really sorry for their fans.
De Gea was vital for the Red Devils as he resisted AZ's attack, and the Spain international made an important save from Owen Wijndal with 14 minutes remaining.
United believed they had won a penalty moments later after substitute Marcus Rashford was brought down, but with no video assistant referee in operation in the Europa, the spot-kick was not awarded.
Jesse Lingard narrowly missed a good chance to win the game with six minutes remaining, with the England international failing to hit the target.
The Red Devils played their best football in the closing stages with AZ clearly tiring, but United lost Lingard to injury after he pulled up during a last-minute sprint. Solskjaer's team failed to capture three points, and the visitors will be content with a draw.
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 03: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal scores his team's second goal during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Standard Liege at Emirates Stadium on October 03, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Dan Is
Arsenal produced one of their best performances of the campaign so far after beating Liege at the Emirates Stadium.
A brace from Gabriel Martinelli gave the Gunners a two-goal advantage after only 16 minutes, and Joe Willock's strike added salt in the Liege wound.
Dani Ceballos completed the scoring in the second half, providing Unai Emery a satisfying night in front of home supporters.
A 93rd-minute winner by Willy Boly gave Wolves a dramatic victory on their visit to Besiktas.
The defender combined with Ruben Neves before calmly slotting home and winning the points.
Besiktas dominated possession for long spells of the match, but the Premier League team won the game with a moment of inspiration from an unlikely scorer.
Manchester United Settle for Scoreless Draw vs. AZ Alkmaar in Europa League
Oct 3, 2019
DEN HAAG, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 3: (L-R) Owen Wijndal of AZ Alkmaar, Daniel James of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League match between AZ Alkmaar v Manchester United at the Cars Jeans Stadium on October 3, 2019 in Den Haag Netherlands (Photo by Soccrates/Getty Images)
Manchester United failed to win for the third time in four matches in all competitions after being held to a 0-0 draw by AZ Alkmaar in Group L of the 2019/20 UEFA Europa League on Thursday night.
A strong United lineup featuring Daniel James, Nemanja Matic, Juan Mata and Fred struggled to create chances, although substitute Marcus Rashford was denied what looked like a clear penalty with 10 minutes to go.
Meanwhile, AZ's Myron Boadu saw an 11th-minute header ruled out for offside.
The stalemate at the Cars Jeans Stadion has moved the Red Devils on to four points and level with Partizan Belgrade in the standings.
United struggled to pose much of a threat during the cautious and scrappy opening exchanges. The AZ defence was keeping the visitors in check, with former Aston Villa centre-back Ron Vlaar a standout figure.
Meanwhile, few were impressed with the decision to move Daniel James off the flank and play him through the middle:
Feels like a matter of time until James is moved back to the wing. Looked isolated and playing a ball into him with his back to goal seems counter-productive. #mufc
When United did find joy in the final third it was usually through Diogo Dalot. The raiding right-back created an excellent chance for Greenwood, who saw his shot from close range blocked.
Dalot picked another astute pass when he crossed for Gomes, but the 19-year-old didn't get his shot off quickly enough. His effort was eventually blocked on the turn and AZ cleared their lines.
At the other end, the hosts' front three were combining well, and Boadu headed in on 11 minutes but was correctly flagged offside, before going close with another header. The final ball was deserting AZ, though, with United centre-backs Victor Lindelof and Marcos Rojo holding the positions well and making decisive interventions to stop moves in key moments.
THE HAGUE, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 03: Dani de Wit of AZ Alkmaar battles for possession with Marcos Rojo of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League group L match between AZ Alkmaar and Manchester United at ADO Den Haag on October 03, 2019 in The Hag
AZ were in the ascendancy as the half drew to a close, moving the ball imaginatively and at pace through the lines but still lacking the finishing touch.
The home side continued to press their advantage after the break, with Oussama Idrissie causing problems. His cross hit United debutant Brandon Williams' hand in the box, but the referee was unmoved by appeals for a penalty.
United were creaking, and David De Gea had to palm away a shot from Owen Wijndal. The chances summed up the pattern of the game, AZ were playing the football and doing the pressing but a tendency to be over-elaborate when in on goal was keeping United in the game.
The difference in quality between the two teams was summed up in midfield, where big-money imports like Matic and Fred were outshined:
Teun Koopmeiners has been quality tonight. Lovely deep-lying playmaker, night and day between his performance and Matić’s and Fred’s. Would love to see a team like Lyon make a move for him next summer.
Solskjaer had swapped James for Rashford and Greenwood for Lingard, but there was no improvement in the away's team quality going forward.
Even so, United should have had a penalty when Rashford was tripped by Wuytens in the box, but no decision went the Red Devils way. It was an incident sure to raise questions about the absence of VAR in UEFA club competitions.
United continue to be let down by players carrying big price tags but failing to deliver. Underperforming players and a paucity of talent in attacking areas has rendered Solskjaer's squad average at best.
What's Next?
The Red Devils are away toNewcastle Unitedon Sunday, while AZ return to Eredivisie action for a trip toWillem IIon the same day.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Says He Wouldn't Risk Paul Pogba on AZ Alkmaar Astroturf
Oct 2, 2019
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 25: Paul Pogba of Manchester United in action during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Manchester United and Rochdale at Old Trafford on September 25, 2019 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said he wouldn't risk Paul Pogba against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday even if the midfielder was fit due to the artificial pitch they'll be playing on.
The UEFA Europa League Group L fixture has been moved to Cars Jean Stadium in The Hague after a partial roof collapse at their usual home venue, the AFAS Stadium in Alkmaar, Netherlands.
Pogba, 26, has played the full 90 minutes in each of United's last two games, but Rob Dawson of ESPN FC reported the Frenchman aggravated his recent ankle injury during Monday's 1-1 draw at home to Arsenal.
Solskjaer said the artificial astroturf at the new location makes it a risk too far for the club's record signing in any case, per Sky Sports' James Dale: "I wouldn't risk him on astroturf even if he was available for this game. With my knees, I've not really enjoyed astroturf. These young boys are okay."
French football writer Jeremy Smith reported the injury would also keep Pogba sidelined from upcoming international commitments:
Paul Pogba, not yet recovered from his ankle injury, will miss France's next two Euro 2020 qualifiers (vs Iceland and Turkey).
The Cars Jean Stadium has a capacity of 15,000 and was built as a venue for the 2013 Hockey World Cup, per Dale's report.
Solskjaer criticised the conditions and said he was surprised they were necessary considering the Dutch climate: "It's okay when you live in the North Pole like we do in Norway. Here I'm surprised. It's one of the worst I've seen for a long while. In Norway, they're all more modern and new. It's safe, it's just not the newest."
Pogba has started in six of a possible nine fixtures this season, missing 1-0 wins over Leicester City and Astana, as well as a 2-0 Premier League defeat away to West Ham United.
PhysioRoom.com summarised United's team news travelling to the Netherlands, with Diogo Dalot and Angel Gomes in line for potential returns following injury:
Dalot and Gomes have been included in the United travelling squad after injury, but Martial, Jones, AWB and Shaw will all miss the trip to AZ Alkmaar. Pogba is afforded a period of further rest following his return from an ankle problem against Arsenal on Monday evening. #MUFC
AZ are unbeaten in their last five games and have won four of those, while United are hoping to score more than once in a match for the first time since they beat Chelsea 4-0 in their Premier League opener.
Solskjaer called on those prospects involved to produce on the European stage:
"One or two of our youngsters will get another chance to impress," Ole adds. "They all want to be part of our future and these games are their chances. We'll have a mix of experience and youngsters." #MUFC#UEL
United will have seen their confidence dented after losing a lead to draw against Arsenal, and their chances look slimmer when considering they've failed to win in three away games this term.
Europa League 2019: Matchday 2 Odds, Live Stream, TV Schedule and Predictions
Oct 2, 2019
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 19: Mason Greenwood of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League group L match between Manchester United and FK Astana at Old Trafford on September 19, 2019 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Manchester United travel to AZ Alkmaar on Thursday in Group L of the UEFA Europa League.
Arsenal welcome Standard Liege to the Emirates Stadium, with the Gunners hoping to maintain their place at the top of Group F.
Sevilla and Roma are in action, with the clubs preparing to face Apoel Nicosia and Wolfsberger AC, respectively.
Wolverhampton Wanderers encounter a difficult road trip to Turkish Super Lig giants Besiktas.
United and Arsenal continue to struggle with their Premier League form, and the Europa League offers both sides a chance to rotate and refresh.
The Red Devils and Gunners drew 1-1 at Old Trafford on Monday, and managers Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Unai Emery will now want to test their squad against solid European opponents.
United travel to the Netherlands to face an AZ Alkmaar team that are third in the Eredivisie following some strong early-season form.
The Dutch side have won six of their opening eight league games and are just one point behind Ajax and PSV.
In contrast, United's 4-0 opening-day win against Chelsea in the Premier League has been forgotten quickly, and Solskjaer's men have experienced an injury crisis and a dip in confidence.
The team have been short on striking options, and United have won only two out of eight in all competitions since the Chelsea victory.
AZ drew their Europa League opener 2-2 against Partizan Belgrade, but they will believe they can hurt United on home soil.
Arsenal reached the final of the competition last term, only to be defeated 4-1 by Chelsea, and the Europa League offers the Gunners a realistic chance of reaching another major final.
Emery's team are struggling with their consistency, but a 3-0 win at Eintracht Frankfurt in their opening group game underlined the quality the north London side have.
Europe's second-tier competition could bring significant relief for United and Arsenal, but if Solskjaer and Emery refuse to prioritise it, early exits might be the consequence.
Both teams will give minutes to fringe players, but wholesale changes can be the quickest way to slip out of the tournament.
AZ Alkmaar vs. Manchester United: Europa League Odds, Live Stream, TV Schedule
Oct 2, 2019
Manchester United's Mason Greenwood celebrates scoring his sides first goal during the Europa League Group L soccer match between Manchester United and Astana at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, England Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
Manchester United travel to the Netherlands looking to get their season back on track with a second win from two matches in the 2019/20 UEFA Europa League on Thursday.
AZ Alkmaar are the opposition, and the Eredivisie outfit drew 2-2 against Partizan Belgrade in their opening Group L game and have the players to cause United problems.
The Red Devils have been faltering domestically, making their worst start in 30 years in the Premier League after Monday's 1-1 draw at home to Arsenal.
United did at least start the Europa campaign in winning fashion, after Mason Greenwood's first senior goal settled things against Astana last time out. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is dealing with injury problems, with striker Anthony Martial and playmaker Paul Pogba among those hurt.
Pogba only returned from injury for the visit of Arsenal, but he reportedly "complained of pain in his ankle," per ESPN FC's Rob Dawson. He noted the France international was "set to be assessed by medical staff" to determine his availability.
Dawson also pointed out striker Rashford is a "doubt," but he feels left-back Luke Shaw could be ready following a hamstring problem. The absence of the England forward would stretch Solskjaer's already-depleted attacking resources to breaking point.
The United boss has already confirmed Martial will play no part, per Michael Plant of the club's official website. Not having his established frontmen to rely on will likely prompt him to hand another start to the promising Greenwood:
He turned 18 on Tuesday, and Greenwood doubled his tally when United beat Rochdale on penalties in the third round of the Carabao Cup last week. The teenager is in form, but United need more creativity from midfield to bring the best out of the fledgling goalscorer.
It means players such as Juan Mata, Fred and Andreas Pereira need to step up. All three have the vision and flair to unlock an AZ defence that hasn't been breached in the club's last three domestic matches.
Arne Slot's team is also loaded in attack thanks to precocious duo of Calvin Stengs, 20 and 18-year-old Myron Boadu. They both scored in Belgrade and also got on the scoresheet during the recent 3-0 win at Feyenoord in the Dutch top flight.
United's defence will surely be tested by AZ's batch of youthful match-winners. If Greenwood and a weakened forward line can't keep pace, Solskjaer's men will suffer another disappointing result.
Arsenal vs. Standard Liege: Europa League Odds, Live Stream, TV Schedule
Oct 2, 2019
FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 19: Joe Willock of Arsenal FC looks on during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Arsenal FC at on September 19, 2019 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
Arsenal will aim to make it two wins from two in Group F of the 2019-20 UEFA Europa League by beating Standard Liege at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday night.
The Gunners are firm favourites with the oddsmakers, despite some inconsistency this season. Arsenal have taken 12 points from seven matches in the Premier League, but things have looked better in Europe after last season's beaten finalists won 3-0 away to Eintracht Frankfurt in their only game thus far.
This is another chance for head coach Unai Emery to give playing time to a crop of talented youngsters. Wingers Reiss Nelson and Bukayo Saka, along with playmaker Joe Willock, should all feature.
Liege will likely look to forward Paul-Jose Mpoku to exploit a suspect Arsenal back line.
Arsenal's young talent was showcased in Frankfurt with Saka and Willock both getting on the scoresheet. Saka, 18, has also been impressing in domestic action since, standing out during Monday's drab 1-1 draw away to Manchester United:
Bukayo Saka is the youngest player to start a Premier League game between Arsenal and Man Utd:
While Saka is making the grade in the first team, 19-year-old Nelson has been out of sorts so far this season. He needs a strong performance and a goal or two to convince people he can deliver on his undoubted potential.
It's a different story for Willock, who has scored in his last two starts in all competitions, after also finding the net during the 5-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Willock's energy and eye for goal make him a better fit to be Arsenal's most-advanced midfielder than Lucas Torreira. The Uruguay international has been able to lead the Gunners' press, but he's also struggled to show the creativity needed to operate so far forward.
Arsenal's play in the final third will improve once raiding full-backs Kieran Tierney and Hector Bellerin get up to speed. The duo returned from injury against Forest and impressed, with Bellerin showcasing his value in attacking areas:
Tierney is not part of Scotland's squad for upcoming internationals, but James Olley of the London Evening Standard reported the former Celtic ace is still available for his club:
Kieran Tierney may miss international duty with Scotland as part of what has been described as a ‘phased return to match fitness’ but he is available for Arsenal’s Europa League match on Thursday and therefore no fresh injury setback.
Emery needs greater athleticism at full-back, so this is a good moment to put Bellerin and Tierney to work. The same is true for centre-back Rob Holding, who started and scored against Forest, following a lengthy injury layoff.
Holding would get a good test from Mpoku, who was on the scoresheet when Liege beat Vitoria FC on the first matchday. Even so, his pace and power won't be enough to contain an Arsenal team with the strength in depth to once again go far in this competition.
Europa League 2019: Latest Tables, Scores After Thursday's Group Matches
Sep 19, 2019
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 19: Mason Greenwood of Manchester United celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the UEFA Europa League group L match between Manchester United and FK Astana at Old Trafford on September 19, 2019 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Manchester United, Arsenal and Rangers all won on matchday one of the 2019/20 UEFA Europa League on Thursday. Mason Greenwood scored his first senior goal to help United beat Astana in Group L, while Arsenal also benefited from academy graduates when Joe Willock and Bukayo Saka helped the Gunners to a big win over Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany.
Liverpool loanee Sheyi Ojo was the hero for Rangers against Feyenoord. However, it wasn't a winning start for Glasgow rivals Celtic after the Hoops were held to a 1-1 draw by Rennes.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' group campaign began on a losing note in Braga, while Sevilla, Roma, Porto and PSV Eindhoven earned impressive wins.
Thursday Scores
Group A
APOEL Nicosia 3-4 Dudelange
Qarabag 0-3 Sevilla
Group B
FC Copenhagen 1-0 Lugano
Dynamo Kyiv 1-0 Malmo
Group C
FC Basel 5-0 Krasnodar
Getafe 1-0 Trabzonspor
Group D
LASK 1-0 Rosenborg
PSV Eindhoven 3-2 Sporting CP
Group E
Cluj 2-1 Lazio
Rennes 1-1 Celtic
Group F
Standard Liege 2-0 Vitoria
Eintracht Frankfurt 0-3 Arsenal
Group G
Rangers 1-0 Feyenoord
Porto 2-1 Young Boys
Group H
Espanyol 1-1 Ferencvarosi
Ludogorets 5-1 CSKA Moscow
Group I
Wolfsburg 3-1 Oleksandria
Gent 3-2 Saint-Etienne
Group J
Borussia Monchengladbach 0-4 Wolfsberg
AS Roma 4-0 Istanbul Basaksehir
Group K
Wolverhampton Wanderers 0-1 Braga
Slovan Bratislava 4-2 Besiktas
Group L
Manchester United 1-0 FC Astana
Partizan Belgrade 2-2 AZ Alkmaar
Group A (Played, Won, Goal Difference and Points)
1. Dudelange: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. Sevilla: 1, 1, +3, 3
3. Apoel Nicosia: 1, 0, -1, 0
4. Qarabag: 1, 0, -3, 0
Group B
1. FC Copenhagen: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. Dynamo Kyiv: 1, 1, +1, 3
3. Lugano: 1, 0, -1, 0
4. Malmo: 1, 0, -1, 0
Group C
1. FC Basel: 1, 1, +5, 3
2. Getafe: 1, 1, +1, 3
3. Krasnodar: 1, 0, -5, 0
4. Trabzonspor: 1, 0, -1, 0
Group D
1. LASK: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. PSV Eindhoven: 1, 1, +1, 3
3. Rosenborg: 1, 0, -1, 0
4. Sporting CP: 1, 0, -1, 0
Group E
1. Cluj: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. Celtic: 1, 0, 0, 1
3. Rennes: 1, 0, 0, 1
4. Lazio: 1, 0, -1, 0
Group F
1. Arsenal: 1, 1, +3, 3
2. Standard Liege: 1, 1, +2, 3
3. Eintracht Frankfurt: 1, 0, -3, 0
4. Vitoria: 1, 0, -2, 0
Group G
1. Porto: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. Rangers: 1, 1, +1, 3
3. Young Boys: 1, 0, -1, 0
4. Feyenoord: 1, 0, -1, 0
Group H
1. Ludogorets: 1, 1, +4, 3
2. Ferencvarosi: 1, 0, 0, 1
3. Espanyol: 1, 0, 0, 1
4. CSKA Moscow: 1, 0, -4, 0
Group I
1. Gent: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. Wolfsburg: 1, 1, +2, 3
3. Saint-Etienne: 1, 0, -1, 0
4. Oleksandria: 1, 0, -2, 0
Group J
1. AS Roma: 1, 1, +4, 3
2. Wolfsberger: 1, 1, +4, 3
3. Istanbul Basaksehir: 1, 0, -4, 0
4. Borussia Monchengladbach: 1, 0, -4, 0
Group K
1. Braga: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. Slovan Bratislava: 1, 1, +2, 3
3. Besiktas: 1, 0, -2, 0
4. Wolverhampton Wanderers: 1, 0, -1, 0
Group L
1. Manchester United: 1, 1, +1, 3
2. AZ Alkmaar: 1, 0, 0, 1
3. Partizan Belgrade: 1, 0, 0, 1
4. FC Astana: 1, 0, -1, 0
Arsenal arrived in Frankfurt still smarting from blowing a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with Watford in the Premier League on Sunday. A much-changed line-up with Saka, Willock and fellow academy graduate Emile Smith Rowe in attack looked primed to struggle against last season's semi-finalists.
Instead, the Gunners kept a rare clean sheet and helped themselves to three terrific goals. The first came from Willock's deflected shot on 38 minutes, while Saka netted his first senior goal five minutes from time.
Saka had already assisted Willock's goal, and the 18-year-old played the key pass for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to wrap up the scoring. It capped a breakout display from the teenage winger:
He's already looking forward to taking further steps in his first-team career:
The first of many goals for Bukayo Saka? ⚽
"Since I was a kid, I've always dreamed of scoring for the Arsenal first team. Now I've done that and I just want to do it more." pic.twitter.com/PtilXMzcWy
Standard Liege are also off the mark in Group F thanks to goals from Florent Hanin and Paul-Jose M'Poku.
United have been expecting big things from Greenwood, and the 17-year-old didn't disappoint when he settled what had been a frustrating game at Old Trafford with the winning goal on 73 minutes.
Like Arsenal, the Red Devils made a host of changes but found it hard to break down their visitors from Kazakhstan. Ultimately it was left to Greenwood, who has struggled out wide, to trick his way into position to showcase his obvious and natural qualities as a finisher.
A brace from Bibras Natcho helped Partizan Belgrade earn a 2-2 draw against AZ Alkmaar in Group L's other game.
Rangers experienced a tense 22 minutes trying to find space against a well-drilled and capable Feyenoord side. Fortunately, Steven Gerrard's connections to Liverpool have helped yield a budding star in Ojo.
The 22-year-old winger conjured the magic the hosts had been missing at Ibrox.
Porto were also winners in Group G thanks to a classy brace from striker Francisco Soares. His goals saw off Young Boys, Rangers' next opponents.
It was a tale of two penalties when Celtic took a point from Rennes. M'Baye Niang struck from 12 yards for the hosts after 38 minutes, before Ryan Christie equalised from the spot a minute before the hour mark.
Wolves are already finding life in the Europa League tough after a tricky trip to Braga. A 71st-minute winner from in-form Ricardo Horta was enough to send the Premier League outfit packing.
Ricardo Horta = 4 goals in his last 5 games (all competitions)
Sevilla flexed their muscle as potential winners by putting three past Qarabag in Azerbaijan. The leaders of La Liga fielded a strong squad and were rewarded with goals from Oliver Torres and Munir El Haddadi.
Smart recruitment is the key to Sevilla's ability to stay competitive, and the five-time winners of this trophy are already getting rewards from their latest shrewd acquisition, striker Javier Hernandez:
Roma have also bought wisely recently, and the Serie A outfit showcased its attacking flair by overwhelming Istanbul Basaksehir. Edin Dzeko, Nicolo Zaniolo and Justin Kluivert got on the scoresheet to add to Junior Caicara's own goal.
Donyell Malen is a rising star for PSV, and the former Arsenal academy ace put the hosts in front against Sporting CP. An own goal from Sebastian Coates doubled PSV's lead, before Bruno Fernandes struck back from the penalty spot.
Centre-back Timo Baumgartl netted the winner for PSV, even though Pedro Mendes got one back late on for the visitors.
