Man United continue to climb up the table, this time, by beating the only side with a 100% record going into the weekend; Arsenal. But what did we learn from the encounter?
Erik ten Hag’s side are playing with real confidence now. This is the team we enjoyed watching in pre-season as they looked super sharp. After putting the first couple of matches firmly in the rearview, the future suddenly looks bright.
There’s obviously still room for improvement, with Ten Hag keen to make it public knowledge that we’re still in the early stages of his process. However, I’m enjoying watching United play more than I have in a very long time.
Arsenal were good yesterday, though what I enjoyed most was the fact that United didn’t wilt when the game went 1-1. Instead, they kicked on again and ensured all three points were won. Anyway, let’s get right into it…
Christian Eriksen on a free transfer was an unreal bit of business
That’s now two games in a row the Dane has been named Man of the Match. Eriksen went about his job quietly but effectively against Arsenal. He was always looking to pass it forward, while ensuring that the midfield continued to work hard and put the pressure on their opposite number.
What I found incredible was his run and involvement in United’s all-important third goal. He showed a real turn of pace to get free, before coolly slotting the ball over to Marcus Rashford to seal all three points. Eriksen also brings some much-needed experience to the table. We’re super lucky to have him.
Antony absolutely loves it
You could see the passion in his celebration. This is what we fans love more than anything. For far too long, United have bought players who don’t really want to be here, though Antony gives off a completely different vibe.
His work ethic, skill, finishing ability and sheer desire to win were on full display. I sense we have an absolute gem of a footballer here – and I was particularly impressed with the overall effectiveness of the performance, despite the fact he only arrived on Thursday!
Bruno Fernandes proving the doubters wrong
I’m still baffled by the fact that there are genuinely United fans out there that do not rate Fernandes… But here we are…
It was his defence-splitting pass into Rashford that allowed United to make it 2-1, while Bruno was also involved in both of the other goals scored by the Red Devils. Add that to his insane work rate, sheer willingness to win at all costs and team ethic, you’ve got yourself an absolute gem of a footballer that you can build a team around.
Ten Hag’s substitutes were spot on
It would have been easy for the gaffer to change things when Arsenal made it 1-1, but Ten hag waited to see how the match developed before making the substitutions.
Introducing Cristiano Ronaldo at the perfect time was a stroke of genius. The Portugal international brought fresh leg to the fray, but also gave Arsenal a different type of problem that they simply couldn’t deal with.
Bringing on Casemiro and Fred to absolutely kill the game at 3-1 was another smart decision. United then sat back, soaked up the pressure and looked to hit Arsenal on the break.
Marcus Rashford loves a big game
I’ll be the first to admit that it probably wasn’t Rashford’s best overall performance, but he ended the match with two goals and an assist. What more can you ask for?
The Englishman always turns up for the big games. That’s 100% one of Marcus’ best traits. He led the line better than he did against Leicester City at the weekend, having six goal contributions already this season. We’re slowly but surely getting that elite-level player back. And I’m all here for it.
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