Manchester United, missing eight key players, struggled against Wolverhampton, recording an expected goals (xG) metric (0,81 - 1,03) lower than their opponents. Wolves, who arrived at Old Trafford with only two points from 18 rounds, nearly secured their first win of the season. The opening goal came somewhat fortunately for Man Utd in the first half when Joshua Zirkzee's shot deflected off Ladislav Krejci, wrong-footing the goalkeeper. However, the Czech defender soon equalized for Wolves just before halftime.

Zirkzee (red, right) opened the scoring for Man Utd at Old Trafford, Manchester, England on 30/12. Photo: Reuters.

Man Utd's attacking lineup was further depleted by the absence of Mason Mount due to injury, joining Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo on the sidelines. Consequently, Joshua Zirkzee started as a right-sided attacking midfielder. On the left wing, Matheus Cunha showed early energy, winning free kicks but failing to convert them into clear chances.

Wolves displayed confidence at times, moving the ball smoothly in Man Utd's half and creating opportunities, much to the frustration of coach Ruben Amorim. Amidst this difficult period, young center-back Ayden Heaven made a decisive play. He dispossessed Hwang Hee-chan near Wolves' left touchline and drove centrally, setting up Zirkzee. His subsequent shot beat Jose Sa, aided by an unintentional deflection off Krejci.

Man Utd's attacking threat increased, with Benjamin Sesko notably heading against the post. However, their defensive vulnerabilities remained evident. Heaven allowed Arokodare into the penalty area, and the Nigerian forward headed wide of the post. Shortly after, Senne Lammens was forced into a close-range save from Hugo Bueno's shot.

Wolves' persistence ultimately paid off. From Bueno's right-wing corner, the ball unexpectedly deflected off Zirkzee before reaching the far post, where Krejci easily headed it in. This equalizer sent the visiting team into halftime with renewed confidence.

In the second half, Amorim urged Man Utd to accelerate their play, but their severe personnel shortages prevented them from creating clear-cut chances. Wolves, in contrast, came closer to scoring. Senne Lammens saved a shot from Jhon Arias following a period of pressure from Rob Edwards' team. Later, Lammens had to dive to block a low shot from Krejci, and though Mosquera followed up, he failed to convert the rebound.

At the other end, Patrick Dorgu, fresh from a spectacular goal against Newcastle just days earlier, thought he had scored in the 89th minute. However, his effort was disallowed for offside.

Failing to secure a full three points against an opponent almost certain for relegation, Man Utd squandered their chance to break into the top 5. Amorim's squad now shares 30 points with Chelsea but sits sixth due to an inferior goal difference. They trail league leaders Arsenal by 15 points and second-placed Man City by 10 points.