Man Utd Player Ratings: Hojlund's Bodo Debut - A Mixed Bag for Ten Hag's Men
Manchester United's Europa League clash against Bodø/Glimt provided a fascinating glimpse into Erik ten Hag's evolving squad. While the 3-1 victory secured a vital three points, the performance itself was far from flawless. The main talking point, however, was the much-anticipated debut of Rasmus Højlund. Let's delve into the individual player ratings and assess the overall impact of the game.
Rasmus Højlund: A Promising Glimpse (7/10)
The Danish striker's introduction was the highlight of the evening for many United fans. While his time on the pitch was limited, Højlund showcased his pace, strength, and clinical finishing ability. His goal was a testament to his predatory instincts, expertly converting a well-weighted pass. Though he didn't have extensive opportunities, his movement and link-up play offered a positive sign for the future. His impact was immediate, injecting energy into the United attack. He needs more game time to fully integrate, but his debut offered a highly promising outlook.
Casemiro: The Unsung Hero (8/10)
Once again, Casemiro proved his worth as the midfield anchor. His tactical awareness, passing accuracy, and unwavering defensive presence were instrumental in controlling the midfield battle. He screened the defense effectively, breaking up attacks and providing a platform for United's more attacking players. His influence on the game, though understated, was crucial to Manchester United's victory.
Antony: Still Seeking Consistency (6/10)
Antony's performance was a mixed bag. While his dribbling skills are undeniable, his final ball often let him down. He showed glimpses of brilliance, but lacked the end product needed to consistently impact the game. He needs to improve his decision-making in the final third to truly fulfill his potential. His raw talent is evident, but consistency remains a challenge.
Bruno Fernandes: A Captain's Performance (7.5/10)
Fernandes continues to be a key figure for United. His tireless running, creative passing, and leadership qualities were on display throughout the match. While not directly involved in goals, his influence on the overall tempo and attacking play was undeniable. He showed his commitment and desire to drive the team forward.
Other Notable Performances:
- Onana (7/10): A confident and composed display from the new goalkeeper, showcasing his distribution skills and making key saves when needed.
- Wan-Bissaka (7/10): A solid defensive performance from the right-back, providing crucial support and limiting Bodø/Glimt's attacking threat down his flank.
- Mount (6.5/10): Showed glimpses of his talent but lacked the cutting edge in the final third.
Areas for Improvement:
Despite the win, Manchester United still has areas to address. The team's overall defensive organization needs refining to prevent the kind of chances Bodø/Glimt created. Maintaining consistency in their attacking play, particularly in the final third, is also crucial for future success.
Conclusion:
Højlund's debut provided a much-needed boost and reason for optimism. While the overall performance was a blend of positives and negatives, the 3-1 victory against Bodø/Glimt was a crucial step in United's Europa League campaign. Ten Hag will be looking for improved consistency and a tighter defensive unit as the season progresses. The potential is clearly there, and with time, this Man Utd team could become a formidable force.