Despite an uninspired display against unfancied Wolves at Old Trafford, Raphael Varane’s close-range header won a 1-0 win for Manchester United.
Before Varane’s 76th-minute winner, Gary O’Neil’s visitors had the better of the chances, with Matheus Cunha missing a fantastic opportunity to put Wolves ahead early in the second half in what was a lively showing by the Brazilian forward.
Erik ten Hag had emphasized the necessity for his squad to “raise the bar” before the game, but United put on a quiet performance in front of their own fans. Things were unlocked by a wonderful pass from Bruno Fernandes and Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross-reaching Varane.
Wolves still had chances, as substitute Fabio Silva twice forced United’s new goalkeeper Andre Onana into good saves late in the game. There was even a penalty in stoppage time when Onana collided with Sasa Kalajdzic while failing to claim the ball.
O’Neil was arrested for his accusations, yet even in defeat, he will be encouraged. Wolves 23 shots at Old Trafford are the most by an away team since Chelsea in 2005.
Despite his team’s three-point victory, Ten Hag will be concerned.