10 things we learned from Everton 2-2 Manchester United
Manchester United were once again left frustrated after surrendering a lead twice in a dramatic 2-2 draw at Everton, leaving them with just one win after three games into the season.
Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko put the visitors ahead on separate occasions, only for Tyrique George and Ainsley Maitland-Niles to drag Everton back into the game.
The result leaves United with just four points from their opening three Premier League matches, while Everton remain unbeaten with five points.
10 things we learned from Everton 2-2 Man United
1. Man United fail again
United have failed to build momentum once again. After three league matches, they have just one victory, with Sunday’s draw following their defeat to Hull City and win over Ipswich Town. The failure to protect a lead twice at Everton will be particularly concerning.
2. Everton deserved their point
Everton’s attacking numbers justified their share of the spoils. They finished with more shots on target than United and kept creating problems, particularly late in the game. Their persistence eventually paid off when Maitland-Niles produced a stunning 96th-minute equaliser.
3. Sesko deserves to start
Benjamin Sesko once again showed what United can gain from having a traditional No.9. His late header restored United’s lead and gave the creative players around him a clear target. With Bryan Mbeumo, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes supplying chances, Sesko’s presence could unlock another level from the attack.
4. More questions about United’s title credentials
Four points from three matches is not the start of a title challenge. United have already dropped points against Everton and lost to newly promoted Hull City, while Champions League football will soon add another demand to the schedule. The pressure is already building.
5. Kobbie Mainoo is the bright spark again
Kobbie Mainoo was among United’s most influential players, assisting Mbeumo for the opening goal and contributing heavily defensively. His 15 defensive contributions showed his importance in helping contain Everton, while his overall performance again offered one of the clearest positives for United.
6. Marcus Rashford is back to stay
Rashford looked lively and dangerous in attack, showing why he has earned another run in the starting XI. The only thing missing was the final goal involvement. His performance was encouraging, although he was forced off in the second half with what Carrick described as nothing major.
7. Welcome back to the Premier League, AMN
Ainsley Maitland-Niles could hardly have scripted a better second Premier League debut. The deadline-day Everton signing came off the bench before producing a spectacular 96th-minute equaliser from distance to deny United victory, equaling his goal total in the competition across 109 games for Arsenal, West Brom, and Southampton.
8. Senne Lammens needs better protection
Senne Lammens has produced several impressive performances since becoming United’s goalkeeper, but conceding twice in each of his first three league appearances highlights a bigger defensive problem. The Belgian cannot continually be expected to rescue United from defensive lapses.
9. A positive start for Everton
Everton have made an encouraging start after finishing last season without a victory in their final seven games. Moyes’ side now have five points from three matches and remain unbeaten, giving them genuine momentum heading into their trip to struggling Tottenham.
10. The Manchester derby will be decisive
Manchester United’s next league assignment is against Manchester City, and the timing could hardly be more significant. A defeat would leave them eight points behind the league leaders, making the derby an early test of whether this side can realistically compete near the top.
