If UEFA didn’t scrap that away-goals rule recently, Manchester United would have enjoyed an utterly promising 1-1 draw in the Champions League round of 16 first leg played at Wanda Metropolitano on Wednesday night.Even now, when it’s considered as a regular draw that leaves both sides with pretty much equal chances of advancing to the next round, it should be seen as an excellent result for Ralf Rangnick’s slot.Excellent in comparison to United’s display against stubborn Diego Simeone’s team. If it wasn’t for that stellar Anthony Elanga’s first-touch equalizer, this would have been one of the worst Red Devils’ performances of the season.Lady Luck smiles on United: Elanga scores for a draw in MadridLack of determination and coherency between the lines and the players themselves should worry every fan. It’s been a long since Man Utd don’t seem like a smooth machine predestined to go all the way in several parallel races they’re running, the Champions League and Premier League above all.It’s deeply disturbing to see Harry Maguire – until recently one of the best defenders in the whole wide world – struggling with all sets of forwards across the continent. Too late, too slow, unable to read the game like he used to, Maguire is enjoying Rangnick’s unconditional support, but it’s far from solid.Just like in the cases of Raphael Varrane, Marcus Rashford, Cristiano Ronaldo…##EDITORS_CHOICE##Maybe the only guy who’s living up to expectations is Bruno Fernandes, who has flourished under Rangnick’s command and pushing United forward almost on his own.Even if they knock Atletico at Old Trafford – and it’s possible as much as the other way around, to be honest – it won’t save the season. Juventus are their potential rival in the next round, and it will be frustrating to see United’s back four trying to get a hold of unplayable Dusan Vlahovic, who netted in his UCL debut against Villareal after only 32 seconds.Juve’s striker on a roll, Chelsea’s on a low – il Bianconeri and the Blues play their European fixturesMoreover, this ‘Saved by Elanga’ magic won’t work every time, nor seldom, so the German tactician needs to find new ways to raise his side.No one expects them to win the Treble and pick up from the place and style Fergie left, but it’s awkward to see a boring Man United failing to record a single touch in the opposing box for the entire half.’Sir Alex left as soon as he realized the club was in decline’The club’s DNA and the fans’ mentality demand much more, not even in terms of results – although they are the foundation of United’s global influence. It’s the need for attractive football, with lots of goals, packed stands, and the whole package embellished with nothing but glory. Just like the old chant says…”Glory, glory Man United”ARSENAL – WOLVERHAMPTON
