Manchester United endured a frustrating afternoon at Old Trafford as they suffered a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth in their final Premier League match before Christmas.
Goals from Dean Huijsen, Justin Kluivert, and Antoine Semenyo secured a well-deserved victory for the visitors, leaving the Reds with little to celebrate heading into the festive break.
The game began with a cautious approach from both teams, as Bournemouth settled into possession early. United crafted the first notable opportunity in the sixth minute when Kobbie Mainoo’s pass deflected into Amad’s path.
The young forward’s low shot tested Bournemouth goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who was up to the task. At the other end, Andre Onana was called into action to save a left-footed strike from Antoine Semenyo.
Bruno Fernandes, who had been pivotal in United’s previous encounters against Bournemouth, looked lively.
He unleashed a swerving shot from 25 yards that stung the palms of Arrizabalaga. Despite these early attempts, the match failed to ignite fully, with blustery and wet conditions adding to the challenge.
Bournemouth took the lead in the 29th minute through teenager Dean Huijsen. The young defender rose to meet Ryan Christie’s free-kick, glancing a header into the far corner of the net.
The set-piece had been awarded after Tyrell Malacia was penalized for a foul on Adam Smith near the touchline, a decision that appeared harsh. The goal boosted Bournemouth’s confidence, and they pressed for a second, with Onana forced into a low save to deny Evanilson’s fierce volley.
United responded with sustained pressure as the half drew to a close. Fernandes had three close chances to equalize, curling a shot wide from Amad’s cutback, forcing a save from Arrizabalaga after being played in by Mainoo, and narrowly missing the target with a powerful strike.
Amad also found space in the box but miscued his shot, sending it beyond the far post. Despite these efforts, United went into the halftime break trailing 1-0.
Manager Ruben Amorim made adjustments at halftime, bringing on Leny Yoro for Malacia and reshuffling the defense. Later, Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho were introduced to inject fresh energy.
However, Bournemouth extended their lead in the 61st minute when Noussair Mazraoui was deemed to have fouled Justin Kluivert in the penalty area. Kluivert stepped up and calmly sent Onana the wrong way to double the visitors’ advantage.
Just two minutes later, Bournemouth struck again. Dango Ouattara’s clever cutback found Semenyo, who finished from close range to make it 3-0. The quick-fire goals left United reeling, and despite their best efforts, they struggled to find a way back into the game.
Substitutes Garnacho and Hojlund created some late chances. Garnacho had a one-on-one opportunity but was denied by Arrizabalaga, while the Bournemouth keeper also produced a fine save to stop Amad’s effort. Hojlund came close with a shot that narrowly missed the target, but United could not break through.
The defeat marks a disappointing end to 2024 at Old Trafford, with United now looking to bounce back on Boxing Day when they face Wolves at Molineux. They will then close the year with a challenging fixture against Newcastle United.
The festive period provides an opportunity for the Reds to regroup and reignite their Premier League campaign. Despite the loss, the 73,720 fans at Old Trafford will hope for a stronger response in the coming matches as United aim to finish the year on a high.