Manchester United – Aston Villa: United Finally Impress Against Underwhelming Villa (2-0)

Ruben Amorim's side put on the kind of performance rarely seen from them this season, as their 3-4-3 system helped them dominate against an underwhelming Aston Villa side trying to play on the counter-attack. There was controversy as Villa were unfortunate to see a goal disallowed, but United eventually saw the fruits of their dominance with two second-half goals.

Tactical analysis and match report by Josh Manley.

Manchester United hit rock bottom this week, as their disastrous season was capped off with defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final. All that remained was a home match against top-five contenders Aston Villa, who desperately needed a win. United, meanwhile, had nothing tangible to play for.

Ruben Amorim lined his side up in the usual 3-4-3 system, with a back three of Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, and promising youngster Ayden Heaven. Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu were selected at wing-back, while Bruno Fernandes partnered Casemiro in central midfield. Amad Diallo and Mason Mount then supported Rasmus Højlund up front.

Unai Emery's Villa side meanwhile started in a 4-2-3-1 shape. Matty Cash, Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, and Ian Maatsen were the back four, while Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana were in central midfield. Morgan Rogers, Marco Asensio, and John McGinn were the attacking midfield trio behind striker Ollie Watkins.