The Red Devils were defeated (1-0) after missing a few chances. Mata played the second half and created danger from set pieces. The next challenge will be in the FA Cup next Saturday, 17 February, against Huddersfield.
Manchester United lost at St. James’ Park (1-0) and, although retains the second place in the Premier League, gave the opportunity to Liverpool and Chelsea to close the gap on the table. A goal from Ritchie in the 65th minute tipped the balance for the locals. United had enough chances to have changed the result, but the goalkeeper, Dúbravka, was very successful.
Juan this time started the clash on the bench. Mata, a starter in nine (six wins and three draws) of the last 11 league games, came on the pitch in the 66th minute, replacing Lingard. His set pieces were the best offensive weapon for ManU in the final stretch. From one of them came a double opportunity for Martial, that the Newcastle saved over the line.
This week the Champions League returns, but United will not play their game in Seville until the 21 Feb. Before (February 17), United will play against Huddersfield Town the last 16 of the FA Cup, a tournament Juan has conquered in two occasions, the last one in 2016.
