It took a moment of inspired brilliance and composure from Anthony Elanga to rescue Manchester United in Spain last night.
The 19-year-old was sent on by interim boss Ralf Rangnick to replace a beleaguered Marcus Rashford with 15 minutes remaining at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
Within five minutes of being on the pitch, United’s number 36 scored with his first touch to send the travelling Reds into raptures.
After being played in on goal by Bruno Fernandes, the Swedish under-21 international took his strike early to punish a flat-footed and out of position Jan Oblak.
It was the academy graduate’s first Champions League goal for the Red Devils and what a moment it was to get off the mark in the biggest club competition in the world.
Elanga’s fearless temperament and desire to run in-behind the Atletico defence gave the reigning La Liga champions a completely different problem to contend with.
Prior to Elanga’s introduction, everything about United’s game was very safe, with no risk or desire to be adventurous.
But Elanga’s emergence under the German has been a breath of fresh air and he continues to come up with big moments in this Manchester United side.
He more than belongs and he will be hoping to earn a place in Rangnick’s starting line-up for the return leg at Old Trafford after making a crucial contribution.
United looked flat until the youngster seemingly lifted and elevated his teammates performance and energy levels.
Elanga’s moment of quality drew the attention and praise of Manchester United legend Patrice Evra.
The Frenchman took to Instagram to share how ‘proud’ he was of Anthony Elanga’s maiden Champions League strike.
Elanga responded to Evra’s message via his own Instagram story which translates: ‘Thank you Uncle’.
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