Manchester United answered the overwhelming criticism with a statement performance in a 2-1 win against Chelsea at Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s men came out of the blocks like a team possessed as they pinned Chelsea back in their own half with no respite.
The pressure was rewarded as Bryan Mbeumo was felled by Robert Sanchez, getting sent off, with Bruno Fernandes opening the scoring soon after against the 10 men.
The pressure didn’t let up, and United were rewarded again in the first half, with Casemiro’s header finding the back of the net.
Casemiro’s double-booking sending off put a huge blot on a nearly flawless first-half from Man Utd.
The second half wasn’t nearly as notable before Chelsea injected drama into it by pulling one back in the 79th minute.
Nerves were palpable at Old Trafford but United saw the game out in rainy conditions to win back-to-back home games under Ruben Amorim for the first time.
Man Utd player ratings vs Chelsea
Altay Bayindir – 6
Never tested and helpless for the goal. A rare, serene outing for him.
Matthijs de Ligt – 8
His attacking runs to create overloads in the final third were crucial. Defended with aggression.
Harry Maguire – 7.5
His selection in Leny Yoro’s place was contentious, but he proved again why he’s a reliable soldier for any manager for any game with another calm performance.
Luke Shaw – 7
Had a hand in the second goal. Respite after the nightmare Manchester derby.
Noussair Mazraoui – 7.5
His quality on the ball and ability to control the tempo are so underrated. Composed and confident.
Patrick Dorgu – 6.5
Assisted Fernandes’ goal with a header, but wastes too many attacking opportunities in the final third.
Casemiro – 6
Well-taken goal overshadowed by two needless bookings. Left United in a 10v10 for the second half.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Scored a much-needed opener by reacting quickly inside the box. Needed more calmness on the ball.
Amad – 7
Lacked some quality in the final third, but an improvement from his usual form this season.
Bryan Mbeumo – 9
No direct goal involvements, but he was the one who made it all happen with his relentless running beyond Chelsea’s defence. Best game in a Utd shirt. Ineos signed a superstar.
Benjamin Sesko – 7.5
Won the flick-on to Mbeumo, which created Chelsea’s red card. Snatching at chances a bit. Needs a goal.
Substitutes
Manuel Ugarte – 6.5
Came on to add some bite to midfield after Casemiro’s sending off. Did okay.
Matheus Cunha – 7
Showed his ball-carrying threat immediately on his return from injury, creating chances. Release valve late on when Chelsea piled on the pressure.
Mason Mount – 6
Struggled to make a decisive impact. Kept things ticking.
Leny Yoro – 6.5
Added height and physicality so United didn’t miss Maguire.
Kobbie Mainoo – 6.5
Came on late for Bruno Fernandes. Won smart fouls to keep United in possession.
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