Man Utd 0-1 Arsenal - Rio Ferdinand spots highs and lows for Amorim's side

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has given his verdict on the Red Devils’ narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on the opening weekend of the Premier League, highlighting both encouraging signs and lingering concerns in Ruben Amorim’s new-look side.

United’s campaign began on a sour note at Old Trafford as Riccardo Calafiori capitalised on a mistake from goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to score the game’s only goal.

Despite the setback, Ferdinand insisted the performance was one of the strongest he has seen from United against a top side in recent years.

Taking to X after the game, the former defender praised United’s attacking energy, particularly from new signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

“Most dominant performance I’ve seen us play in a long time vs a top team, despite losing,” Ferdinand wrote.

He continued, “Positives: A threat physically. Pace. Cunha & Mbeumo very lively. Have willing runners in possession and on transitions. Saw some patterns in possession that bode well for future, time on training ground showing.”

However, Ferdinand also raised concerns over captain Bruno Fernandes’ positioning, stressing that his tendency to push forward while deployed deeper in midfield could leave the team vulnerable.

“Negatives: Cheap goal, GK gotta do better. Be aggressive in transitions if Bruno playing deeper. 1st thought to creep forward… lapses in concentration may be a problem against the better and more physical teams. Didn’t flood the box enough at times (however, Sesko may change this),” he added.

With Benjamin Sesko also handed his debut from the bench, Ferdinand believes Amorim now has the tools to build a side capable of competing at the highest level.

United will aim to bounce back quickly when they travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on August 24.