Manchester United 12(2)-(2)11 Grimsby Town - Five Talking points from the game

Manchester United suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Grimsby Town at Blundell Park on Wednesday, August 27, in the Second Round of the EFL Cup. The Red Devils were taken to task by the League Two side, who went 2-0 up in the first half.

However, the Premier League giants got back into the game through late goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire. Unfortunately, the Mariners progressed to the Third Round after securing a 12-11 win via penalties.

Here are five talking points from the game:

Manchester United looked second best against Grimsby Town

Manchester United had 70% possession against Grimsby Town, and registered 28 shots, nine of which were on target. The Red Devils also completed 457 of their 525 attempted passes and created 22 chances.

The Premier League giants had 46 touches in the opposition box and attempted 29 crosses. Unfortunately, they were second best against a gritty Grimsby side, who won the battle in the middle of the park. The Mariners never looked out of place against Ruben Amorim's team and were rewarded for their courage.

The Red Devils lack a powerful presence in the midfield

Manchester United are still coming to terms with Ruben Amorim's 3-4-3 system, but the midfield now appears to be their Achilles heel. Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have started in the midfield two with mixed effect.

Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte were handed the chance to impress against Grimsby in midweek, but the lack of physicality remains a concern. With Casemiro no longer young and Ugarte yet to convince, it is clear why the Red Devils tried to sign Carlos Baleba this summer.

Goalscoring remains a problem for Manchester United

Despite investing around £200m in the attack this summer, Manchester United's struggles in front of goal have shown no signs of ending. Matheus Cunha has been lively so far, but had an off day against Grimsby.

Bryan Mbeumo showed his quality by scoring his first goal for the Red Devils. However, the fans are likely to be a little concerned about Benjamin Sesko's struggles. One can only hope that the 22-year-old can recover from the slow start and eventually come good for the Premier League giants, who are in desperate need of goalscorers.

Bruno Fernandes still crucial to the Red Devils' plans

Bruno Fernandes' future has been making headlines all summer. It has been reported that the Portuguese ace has turned down a lucrative offer to move to the Middle East this year.

There have also been concerns about his suitability in a two-man midfield in Ruben Amorim's 3-4-3 system. However, it is evident that Bruno Fernandes remains Manchester United's most important player. The Portuguese's entry at the break added much needed composure in the middle of the park and allowed the Red Devils to push men forward in attack.

Ruben Amorim needs more time

Ruben Amorim's tactics are yet to bear fruit at Manchester United. The Portuguese head coach was a revelation for Sporting, but has found it tough to replicate that magic at Old Trafford. It is evident from the Grimsby game that Amorim needs time, and one can only hope that the Red Devils are willing to be patient with him.

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