Edinson Cavani made his first start for Manchester United against Istanbul Basaksehir.
The veteran Uruguayan showed glimpses of what he is capable of with a strong all round performance.
Cavani’s off ball work was just as impressive. He set the tone for United with his pressing from the kick-off.
His hard work created space for Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Bruno Fernandes in attack.
It was his run across goal which left goalkeeper Gunok confused enough to spill the ball into Fernandes’ path for the second.
Cavani did exceptionally well at finding space. Often he got into good goalscoring positions and his teammates could not quite pick him out.
He was unlucky not to score early in the second half when at shot was deflected over the bar.
In possession he was effective, completing 95.8 per cent of his passes.
The veteran showed he is more than just a target man. His work rate was impressive as he worked hard to track back in his own half throughout the game.
There is a strong chance after this that Cavani is selected to start against Southampton this weekend.
The Saints are a strong pressing team and Cavani can help United play them at their own game.
Early signs are promising
When the prospect of signing Cavani was first raised, it split opinion among supporters, fearful we would be signing a mercenary who is past his best.
Worries like that seem misplaced. Cavani is closer to a Zlatan than a Falcao.
The early signs are very promising that Cavani can have a big role in this United side. He is only just getting warmed up.
Supporters have been left impressed by Cavani’s early contribution in a United shirt. Here is a look at some of the reaction to his performance…
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- Youri Tielemans has explained why he’s set to replicate success of Mbeumo and Cunha at Man Utd
- Lisandro Martinez sends first message after injury and World Cup final loss, De Gea responds
- Rio Ferdinand’s game-changing transfer to Man Utd revisited
- Who is Dante Plunkett? Man Utd youngster earns call-up for 2026 CONCACAF U20 Championship
- Alex Scott will achieve a childhood dream if he signs for Man United this summer
- Marcus Rashford cannot be Man United’s No.9, fans have seen that experiment fail already
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