EPL: Ten Hag Breathes Sigh of Relief as United Earn Villa Draw

Manchester United End Losing Streak with Villa Draw

United's co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe watched as Ten Hag's side showed resilience, particularly in defense...

Manchester United secured a crucial 0-0 draw at Aston Villa, relieving some pressure on manager Erik ten Hag. The point ends United's four-game losing streak, but they remain winless in five games.

Manchester United earned a vital 0-0 draw at Aston Villa, alleviating some pressure on manager Erik ten Hag. The point marks a much-needed respite from United's recent struggles, although they've now gone five games without a win.

United's co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe watched as Ten Hag's side showed resilience, particularly in defense, where veteran duo Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans were instrumental. Despite losing Maguire to injury at halftime, United maintained their solidity.

Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes came closest to scoring, with Fernandes' free-kick hitting the bar. Substitute Antony also forced Villa keeper Emi Martinez into an impressive save.

Aston Villa, still basking in their Champions League win over Bayern Munich, lacked intensity and relied heavily on Martinez's excellence. Even the introduction of Jhon Duran couldn't spark their side.

The draw allows United to regroup during the international break before facing Brentford at Old Trafford. For Villa, it caps a satisfying week, despite failing to replicate their Bayern-winning performance.

Match Stats: 

• Possession: Aston Villa had 54.2% possession, while Manchester United had 45.8%.
• Shots on Goal: Manchester United had 4 shots on goal, while Aston Villa had 1.
• Shots Attempts: Aston Villa attempted 11 shots, while Manchester United attempted 10.
• Yellow Cards: Aston Villa received 1 yellow card, while Manchester United received 5.
• Corners: Aston Villa had 6 corners, while Manchester United had 3.
• Saves: Aston Villa's goalkeeper made 4 saves, while Manchester United's goalkeeper made 1.
• Expected Goals: Aston Villa had an expected goal rate of 0.48, while Manchester United had an expected goal rate of 0.52.
• Passes: Aston Villa completed 412 passes, while Manchester United completed 356.
• Fouls: Aston Villa committed 12 fouls, while Manchester United committed 11.
• Offside: Aston Villa were caught offside 0 times, while Manchester United were caught offside 1 time.

Premier League Positions 

• Manchester United: 8 points (14th)
• Aston Villa: 14 points (5th)

Upcoming Fixtures 

• Manchester United: Brentford 
• Aston Villa: Fulham