In the aftermath of Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal, manager Ruben Amorim has acknowledged that his team’s struggles with defending set-pieces proved to be the decisive factor in the game.

Speaking to BBC Match of the Day, Amorim admitted that the two corner routines that led to Arsenal’s goals “changed the game” after a relatively even first half.

“Until the set-pieces, the game didn’t have too many opportunities for both sides, the set-pieces killed the game,” he said.

United defender Matthijs de Ligt echoed his manager’s sentiments, suggesting that his side had performed well defensively aside from the goals conceded from set-pieces.

“In the defensive phase, the amount of chances we conceded without the set-plays [was good],” he told MUTV.

Despite the disappointment of the result, Amorim remained positive about the overall performance, stating that his players were “committed” and that the momentum could have shifted had De Ligt scored from a header that was brilliantly saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

The defeat marked Amorim’s fourth game in charge of Manchester United in all competitions since taking over the role. De Ligt acknowledged that the team is still adapting to the new manager’s system, but expressed confidence that improvements will come with time.

“We’re on the road to improve as a team and I think the manager said it also. Maybe if we do it a certain way we have a bigger chance of getting results right now,” he said.

With Manchester United’s set-piece vulnerabilities exposed, Amorim and his players will be keen to address this issue as they look to bounce back from the defeat and continue their progress under the new management.