Wayne Rooney has given his reaction to Manchester United's dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw with Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium. The club legend said his former side will be frustrated after conceding a 96th-minute equaliser on Sunday, September 6.
Rooney commented following a match that saw United twice surrender a lead. Bruno Fernandes struck the woodwork early on before Bryan Mbeumo put the visitors ahead two minutes into the second half. Tyrique George levelled for Everton with seven minutes of normal time remaining, only for Benjamin Sesko to restore United's advantage three minutes later. Ainsley Maitland-Niles then struck deep into stoppage time to snatch a point for the hosts.
What did Wayne Rooney say about the performance?
Wayne Rooney, Manchester United's all-time top scorer, analysed the performance in detail. He focused on the team's structure and control during the game, acknowledging the disappointment of the late goal.
"I thought it was a good away performance," Rooney said. "There was a lot more control. The midfield three were really good. They'll be frustrated they haven't won the game, given the performance." The draw means United remain winless in two away league games this season, having also lost 2-0 at Hull City on the opening weekend. Their sole victory so far was a 5-2 home win against Ipswich Town.
Where does this result leave Manchester United?
The single point leaves Manchester United in 12th place in the Premier League standings. They have three points from two games, with a record of one win and one loss. The team has scored five goals and conceded four, giving them a +1 goal difference. They currently sit six points behind early leaders and rivals Manchester City.
This represents a slow start for a side that finished third last season and secured a return to the UEFA Champions League after a year's absence. United have won only one of their opening three Premier League fixtures, gathering four points. Early exits in both domestic cups last season, including the opening round of the EFL Cup, add to the pressure for a stronger campaign this time.
What is Manchester United's upcoming schedule?
Erik ten Hag's team faces a critical and congested period of fixtures. They open their Champions League campaign at home against Sabah on Thursday, September 10. This is followed by a massive Premier League derby at Old Trafford against Manchester City, who are first in the table, on Sunday, September 13. The schedule then continues with a home EFL Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion on September 16.
This demanding run comes as the squad deals with several absences. Key players currently sidelined include Amad Diallo, Carlos Baleba, and Manuel Ugarte, whose availability can be tracked on the club's injuries page. Fans can view the full sequence of matches on the official fixtures list.
How can Manchester United improve their form?
Addressing the tendency to concede late goals and securing results away from home will be immediate priorities. The team's underlying performance showed positive signs in midfield control, but converting that into wins is essential. Maintaining focus for the full duration of matches, especially in defence, will be vital during this busy period.
The context of the league table, which shows United six points off the pace, adds urgency. Supporters can monitor the evolving standings as the season progresses. The next challenge is the home clash with Manchester City on September 13, a fixture that already carries significant weight in the early title race.
