Manchester United's Champions League hopes dashed in draw with Bournemouth

Manchester United's hopes of securing a spot in next season's Champions League suffered a blow as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Bournemouth. Bruno Fernandes' brace was not enough to secure a victory for the Red Devils, who now find themselves 10 points behind the top-four spots with just six games remaining.

Bournemouth took the lead twice through goals from Dominic Solanke and Justin Kluivert, but a controversial VAR decision denied them a late penalty that could have sealed the win. United's defensive vulnerabilities were once again exposed, with French teenager Willy Kambwala making a costly error that led to Solanke's opener.

Despite Fernandes equalizing with a well-taken volley, Kluivert restored Bournemouth's lead shortly after. Erik ten Hag's future as United manager is under scrutiny following a string of poor results, with the team managing just one win in their last seven league matches.

Amad Diallo, who came on as a substitute at halftime, played a key role in earning United a point as his shot led to a penalty converted by Fernandes. Bournemouth felt aggrieved by VAR decisions, including a late penalty that was overturned after Kambwala's challenge on Ryan Christie was deemed to be outside the box.

The draw leaves Bournemouth in 12th place, eight points behind United in the race for European qualification. With tensions rising at Old Trafford, the pressure is mounting on ten Hag to turn United's fortunes around in the remaining fixtures of the season.