Manchester United’s turbulent 2024–25 campaign took another dark turn on May 11 with a dispiriting 2-0 loss to West Ham United at Old Trafford. This defeat not only handed the Hammers their first Premier League win at the iconic stadium since 2007, but it also dragged United down to 16th in the league table—just a single point ahead of their London opponents. For a club of United’s stature, such a position so late in the season is both staggering and deeply troubling.
The match unfolded in favor of the visitors, who looked sharp and purposeful from the outset. Tomáš Souček broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, finishing off a well-coordinated move that prominently featured Mohammed Kudus. West Ham’s second goal came shortly after the break, with Jarrod Bowen punishing a disorganized United midfield in the 57th minute to double the lead. Despite Manchester United mustering 20 attempts on goal, they were repeatedly denied by West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who delivered a standout performance to keep a clean sheet.
Worryingly for United, this latest home loss marked the 12th occasion this season in which they have conceded first at Old Trafford—a damning new record that starkly illustrates the team’s ongoing defensive frailty. Manager Rúben Amorim, who was brought in to revitalize the club’s tactical identity, now finds himself under intense scrutiny. With just one league game left before the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21, the pressure is mounting. A defeat in that final would not only mean the loss of a major trophy but could also cast further doubt on Amorim’s future at the helm.
The situation was made even more distressing by the injury to rising star Leny Yoro. The 19-year-old center-back was forced off the pitch with a foot injury and appeared visibly distraught. The sight of his emotional exit, coupled with the concern shown by teammates, added a poignant layer to an already bleak afternoon for the club. His potential absence from the final further complicates an already delicate scenario.
With the season rapidly approaching its conclusion, Manchester United faces a defining moment. The Europa League final is no longer just about silverware—it has become a potential turning point that could either bring some redemption or trigger sweeping changes in the summer. If United are to salvage anything from this deeply underwhelming season, they will need to summon resilience, make tactical corrections, and show a renewed sense of purpose—both on and off the pitch.
