Peter Schmeichel Criticizes Sofyan Amrabat’s First-Half Performance for Manchester United
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel didn’t mince his words when he singled out new signing Sofyan Amrabat for criticism after a disastrous first half against Crystal Palace.
Amrabat, who arrived on loan from Fiorentina on deadline day, made his first start for the club in the midweek Carabao Cup third-round tie against Palace. He had impressed on his full English football debut.
However, with Sergio Reguilon, Luke Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia sidelined, the Morocco international started at left-back against Roy Hodgson’s side. Unfortunately, he was responsible for giving away the free kick that led to Palace’s opening goal after just 25 minutes.
During the match, Amrabat was involved in several unnecessary fouls, contributing to United’s struggles in front of their home fans.
Analyzing the action at halftime, former goalkeeper Schmeichel didn’t hold back in criticizing Amrabat’s poor first-half performance.
“We talked about Amrabat before the game; it’s his first full Premier League game, and he just hasn’t had a great game so far,” Schmeichel told Premier League Productions.
“He gives away a silly foul, which leads to this free kick. I expected a Danish player [United striker Rasmus Hojlund] to score at the other end today, but for Joachim Anderson to hit the ball like that, what a fantastic goal.”
While some United fans questioned Andre Onana’s role, given his recent error in the Champions League against Bayern Munich, Schmeichel refrained from blaming the Cameroon international.
“We can talk about whether the goalkeeper should have done better, should the defense have done better. Just enjoy this. It is a fantastic finish.”
In the end, United secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Palace, with Alejandro Garnacho, Casemiro, and Anthony Martial all finding the back of the net.