Manchester United kick-start their European campaign, hoping that their qualification to the Europa League as a result of last years FA Cup success could lead to more silverware glory. If United are to continue to struggle in the league, then becoming a cup side could keep fans happy, and Ten Hag in a job. But standing in their way first was a former side of the manager, in FC Twente who United should have found fairly straight forward, but actually it became a bit more of a challenge as the game played out.

As always, if you have any thoughts on Manchester United this season or in this specific game, get in touch with us by leaving a comment, following us on X (@NextGoalWinBlog) or Instagram (@NextGoalWin) and check out our YouTube channel (@NextGoalWinner).

Teams

United went positive with their XI, with a midfield pair of Ugarte-Eriksen who could get forward, the latter being on the scoresheet in the game. With Zirkzee chosen to lead the line, late changes were required in the attack as United looked to get back in control of the game.

For Twente, there’s not many notable names from a UK perspective, but van Wolfswinkel definitely brought back memories from his spells at Norwich and other European sides.

Manchester United: Onana, Dalot, Martinez, Maguire, Mazraoui, Eriksen (Mainoo 79′), Ugarte, Rashford (Mount 79′), Fernandes, Amad (Garnacho 67′), Zirkzee (Hojlund 79′)

Subs: Bayindir, Heaton, Evans, De Ligt, Casemiro, Collyer, Antony

FC Twente: Unnerstall, Salah-Eddine, Bruns, hilgers, Van Rooij, Vlap (Kjolo 61′), Regeer (Lagerbielke 83′), Steijn (Rots 60′), Van Bergen (Ltaief 74′), Lammers (Besselink 83′), Van Wolfswinkel

Subs: El Maach, Tyton, Hoorenbeeck, Kuipers, Mesbahi, Rots, Eiting

Manchester United 1-1 FC Twente

Manchester United kicked off their 2024–25 Europa League campaign at Old Trafford, only to be held to a 1–1 draw by FC Twente. The first half belonged to the hosts, who gradually grew into the game and finally broke through in the 35th minute. Christian Eriksen curled in a superb first-time strike from inside the box that found the top corner, giving United a deserved lead and sending the crowd into raptures.

But Twente refused to lie down after the break. They came out with renewed energy, and in the 68th minute they pounced. Sam Lammers robbed Eriksen of possession just outside the United area, burst forward and tucked a low, powerful finish past André Onana to level the match. Despite a late onslaught from United, with ten Hag’s substitutes throwing bodies forward, the visitors’ defence held firm, and their goalkeeper made a crucial late save to preserve the point.

It was a frustrating night for United. Manager Erik ten Hag admitted afterward that dropping their intensity in the second half cost them, while Eriksen himself said that although opening the scoring felt good, conceding in such a way was a bitter pill to swallow. The draw, while not disastrous, served as a reminder that European nights are never straightforward, and that even at home, United must be sharper to turn dominance into victories.

Talking Points

Manchester United opened their Europa League campaign with a sense of expectation, returning to continental competition eager to set the tone for a stronger season. Old Trafford was lively under the lights, and United started with confidence, moving the ball well and controlling the early tempo. Their positive play was rewarded when they took the lead, a moment that seemed to settle any nerves and suggested they were ready to put their authority on the group from the very first matchnight.

But that early promise slipped away as the game wore on. United allowed FC Twente to grow into the contest, and the visitors took full advantage, equalising in a moment that summed up the hosts’ dip in focus. The goal they conceded felt avoidable, a lapse that undid an otherwise composed first-half display. From there, United chased the winner, but their rhythm never fully returned, leaving fans and players frustrated at how a strong position had been surrendered.

The draw was a reminder that United still need to be sharper if they are to make a deep run in Europe. The quality is clearly there, but so too are the recurring issues: a drop in intensity after scoring, and a struggle to reassert control once momentum shifts. Ten Hag’s side will know that in the Europa League, fine margins matter, and failing to stay switched on can quickly turn victories into missed opportunities. Their campaign is up and running, but improvement is essential.