Champions League – Shakhtar Donetsk 1 Manchester United 1: It’s all about Giggs

There will be no argument – on the importance of the point gathered last night at the Donbass Arena. It is an away Champions League game and it is against one of the most formidable opponent in Manchester United’s group. By doing so, David Moyes also avoid his ‘first’ European loss as United manager.Without Wayne Rooney David Moyes put out a possession-minded team with Tom Cleverly, Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick in the centre of midfield, where Fellaini was operating in a much advanced role. Moyes also put hardworking Antonio Valencia and Danny Welbeck at the flanks making Robin Van Persie at times coming in deep just to have the ball. It was however a controlled performance and Manchester United was lucky with the early goal. One could not help but felt that Moyes had actually more than willing to settle for a draw in what is considered the toughest fixture for United in this group. United fans also lamented how the early goal could have somehow turned into 3 points if the defense holds up for 90 minutes.

 

In the end this match is more about Ryan Giggs making his 145 Champions League appearances, making him top of the list of all time among players. This by no means an easy feat but considering that Giggs makes his debut in the 90s it makes sense and this also highlights Manchester United’s pedigree in European top competition. But approaching 40 years old Giggs has somehow slow, to make sure his body will last the season. It seems David Moyes intentions for Giggs are geared towards his experience and not so much for Giggs as a game changer – hence the player-coach role.

 

While the performance at Donbass Arena would be considered credible to most involved, Manchester United has to up their performance a few notches if they are to compete with other European powerhouse like Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid in the later stages of this competition – all of these teams had already currently performing at a very high level. David Moyes must make sure his team selection goes right for the next 2 matches against Real Sociedad – a team on paper is the weakest but cannot be underestimated.