Manchester United’s return to Premier League action ended in frustration as they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Anthony Elanga made an immediate impact against his former club, scoring the game’s only goal just five minutes in. Known for his blistering speed, Elanga covered 85 meters in a rapid counterattack, leaving United’s defence unable to keep up.
Noussair Mazraoui struggled to contain the Swedish winger, and that early moment ultimately proved decisive despite United’s efforts to find an equalizer. Forest capitalized on a defensive lapse from United, who were caught off guard while committing too many players forward for a corner.
Former Nottingham Forest manager Martin O’Neill was unimpressed by United’s defensive frailties, criticizing their organization on TNT Sports. He called their approach “brutal” and “crazy,” noting that they had multiple opportunities to prevent the goal but failed to do so.
Elanga’s standout performance highlighted his importance to Forest’s strong campaign. Since his £15m move from United in 2023, he has flourished at City Ground, and his display on Tuesday night underlined what his former club may now be missing.
Despite his match-winning contribution, Elanga chose not to celebrate out of respect for United, a club he still follows closely. However, his performance might leave Ruben Amorim wondering what could have been had he remained at Old Trafford.
‘Absolutely brutal’ – Ex-Nottingham Forest boss spots ‘crazy’ Man United moment during 1-0 defeat
