Manchester United dropped crucial points in their 1-1 draw against West Ham United, and defensive performances particularly from Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw raised fresh concerns in the club’s push for Champions League qualification.
While Benjamin Šeško’s late equaliser rescued a point, United’s backline endured a difficult night at the London Stadium.
Why Manchester United Dropped Points Against West Ham
Facing an 18th-placed West Ham side, United were expected to control proceedings. However, defensive lapses and a lack of attacking fluidity allowed the hosts to grow in confidence.
Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville consistently targeted United’s full-backs, creating dangerous situations throughout the match.
Diogo Dalot’s Performance vs West Ham
Dalot, who had impressed in recent weeks, endured a frustrating evening.
Key numbers from his performance:
- 0 tackles made
- 10 possessions lost
- Yellow card received
- Substituted in second half
Summerville repeatedly exploited space on United’s right flank, forcing Dalot into reactive defending rather than proactive positioning.
The Portuguese defender was eventually replaced as Michael Carrick sought a more attacking approach.
Luke Shaw’s Role in West Ham’s Opening Goal
On the opposite side, Luke Shaw was also under scrutiny.
The England international was slow to engage during the build-up to West Ham’s opener, allowing Bowen space to deliver the ball that led to Tomas Soucek’s goal.
Although Shaw has started every Premier League match this season, his attacking output remains limited:
Luke Shaw – 2025/26 Premier League Stats
- Games: 26
- Assists: 1
- Big chances created: 1
- Key passes per game: 0.6
- Clean sheets: 2
United’s full-backs have struggled to provide both defensive security and attacking width in recent weeks.
Is United’s Defence Holding Them Back?
Manchester United have now dropped points in four of their six matches against the bottom three this season.
With Champions League qualification still within reach, performances against struggling sides could prove decisive.
Defensive inconsistency remains a recurring theme.
Should Carrick Rotate Against Everton?
With Everton up next, Carrick may consider changes.
Noussair Mazraoui could return to the starting XI, while tactical adjustments may be required to restore defensive balance.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
