Erik ten Hag brought in new signing Antony to play against Arsenal as Manchester United beat the Gunners 3-1, ending their unbeaten start to the Premier League season.
The goals came from Antony and Marcus Rashford, the Englishman scored twice in the second half to put Arsenal to the sword.
Here is how UtdDistrict rated the Reds’ performance against Arsenal:
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David de Gea – 6.5/10
Made a couple of excellent saves to deny Martinelli twice in the first half. However, was partly at fault for Arsenal’s only goal of the night. Didn’t make his mind up in time and in turn, left the goal open for Saka to shoot into.
Diogo Dalot - 7.5/10
Diogo Dalot. His performances have been speaking for themselves recently. Excellent linkups with everyone on the pitch, manages his positioning perfectly and has been deadly on that right hand side since United have gained momentum.
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Raphaël Varane – 7/10
At fault for Arsenal’s goal after misplacing a pass in United’s half. Had a decent game otherwise, intercepting well, making good passes and helping get United out of Arsenal’s press.
Lisandro Martínez - 7/10
‘The Butcher’ enjoyed yet another good game today. His anticipation, ball progression, and tackling ooze major class. However, he was beaten twice in malicious situations. Once, by Jesus, who found Odegaard, who chucked a huge chance. And secondly, by Saka from an Arsenal throw-in. Hopefully, his injury is nothing serious.
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Tyrell Malacia – 7/10
Malacia has been developing well under Ten Hag. Was fairly decent in this game but did lose the ball to Saka inside United’s box which led to a chance for the Gunners.
Scott McTominay – 8/10
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Did a good job supporting his defence, especially with linkup and long balls. McTominay gave an excellent effort tonight and could have shown his doubters why he was chosen in the starting XI tonight.
Christian Eriksen - 7.5/10
Made a good run to find Antony’s cross early into the game however could not fire on target. Was a bit quiet throughout the game until he made an excellent run towards the Arsenal box to unselfishly find Rashford who scored United’s third.
Jadon Sancho - 6.5/10
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Featured on his preferred left wing position with Antony getting the nod on the opposite wing. Showed early indications of forming a positive future alliance with Malacia. He played a part in the goal by releasing Rashford, who sent the ball through to Antony inside Arsenal's box. Despite having some decent moments tonight, he wasn't able to put on his finest performance when wearing a United jersey. Was replaced by Fred with slightly over 20 minutes remaining.
Bruno Fernandes - 8.5/10
Beautiful passing all around from the Portuguese today. Made an excellent through ball for United’s second and Rashford’s first of the night. Helped create another after teeing up Eriksen’s assist for United’s third. Showed his lethality on the counter and almost found the net after picking up on Ramsdale’s mistake. Pressed all game round and is starting to find his feet under Erik ten Hag.
Antony - 8.5/10
What a debut for the Brazilian! United supporters were shocked to find him in the starting line-up instead of Ronaldo or Elanga. However, made the most out of it and scored an excellent debut goal early in the first half. His performance tonight can definitely be seen as a sign of things to come.
Marcus Rashford - 10/10
Marcus Rashford is back. Was involved in all of United’s three goals tonight. Made excellent runs and was able to hold the ball well. Was the perfect striker tonight, creating chances, making beautiful runs on the counter and, of course, scoring goals.
Substitutes
Cristiano Ronaldo - 6/10
Came on for Antony close to the hour mark. Was another frustrating game for him, making decent runs, linking up well with teammates. However, just wasn't able to find the net.
Casemiro - 6/10
Had a good game tonight. Made good tackles and was positioned well.
Fred - 6.5/10
Came on for 30 mins. Did well to help United defensively and linked up well with the team. Almost found Ronaldo late into the game..
Harry Maguire - 6/10
Came on to replace Lisandro Martinez. Did well to support United's defence and received a booking as a result.
Topics: Manchester United, Arsenal, Premier League
Aadit Mehta