Manchester United have set an unwanted Premier League record after conceding their 17th goal from set pieces in 2024.
The record was confirmed during their match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford, marking the highest number of set-piece goals conceded by the Red Devils in a single calendar year since the Premier League’s inception 32 years ago.
The latest defensive lapse came through Dean Huijsen’s header, which put the visitors ahead at the Theatre of Dreams.
The goal came in the 29th minute of the match, with Huijsen finding the net from a free-kick in front of the Stretford End.
Dean Huijsen scored the opener against United
Reuters
The header not only gave Bournemouth the lead but also highlighted Manchester United’s glaring weakness in defending set pieces this season.
This latest defensive frailty adds to what has become a mounting concern for United, with their set-piece vulnerability now officially the worst in their Premier League history.
United had another horror start in the Premier League
Reuters
The 17-goal tally represents a significant defensive failing that has plagued the team throughout the calendar year.
The implications of this defensive fragility could prove costly for Manchester United’s league position.
Ruben Amorim’s side have had a terrible time defending corners
Reuters
A defeat in this match would see United drop to 13th place in the Premier League table heading into Christmas Day.
Such a position would represent a concerning low point for the club, particularly given their traditional aspirations for Champions League qualification.
The potential of spending Christmas in the bottom half of the table underscores the severity of United’s defensive struggles this season.