In a shocking turn of events, Manchester United suffered a devastating 0-4 defeat at home against Crystal Palace in the 36th round of the Premier League. This defeat resulted in Manchester United falling out of the European qualification places for the upcoming season. The “Red Devils” currently sit in 8th place, which does not allow them to participate in even the Conference League.

Under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has accumulated 54 points, trailing 6th-placed Newcastle by a margin of 2 points and sitting behind Chelsea due to an inferior goal difference. If they finish the season in this position, their only hope of European football would be to defeat Manchester City in the FA Cup final on May 25th.

During the match at Selhurst Park, Manchester United was without the services of captain Bruno Fernandes, while defender Harry Maguire was also sidelined. Manager Ten Hag had to rely on the central defensive partnership of Jonny Evans, who had just returned from injury, and Casemiro.

On the offensive end, Christian Eriksen struggled against the physicality of Crystal Palace’s midfielders. Both times Eriksen was bypassed, Manchester United conceded goals. Michael Olise and Jean Mateta broke through from midfield and unleashed powerful shots from just outside the 18-yard box, beating Andre Onana in the 12th and 40th minutes, respectively.

In the second half, Manchester United’s defense continued to perform poorly and conceded two more goals due to defensive errors. In the 58th minute, Tyrick Mitchell comfortably tapped in a goal from close range, extending the lead to 3-0. Then, in the 66th minute, Casemiro lost possession, providing an opportunity for Olise to strike a powerful shot that Onana couldn’t keep out, resulting in the fourth goal.

Olise had an impressive performance and is one of the targets Manchester United is reportedly interested in acquiring during the upcoming summer transfer window.