Manchester United defeated Leicester City by 2-1 at the Old Trafford in the first game of the Premier League 2018-19 season. Jose Mourinho’s men opened the scoresheet as French superstar Paul Pogba calmly converted a penalty in the 2nd minute of the first half. Luke Shaw doubled up the tally, before Leicester City got one back through their prolific striker Jamie Vardy.
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United bagged the three points and this will give Mourinho a bit of relief after a topsy-turvy pre-season and his issue with the transfer window and club’s transfer policy.
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Manchester United Player ratings vs Leicester City:
David De Gea – 8
The Spaniard pulled off some superb saves, especially the one from James Maddison in the first half.
Matteo Darmian – 5
A lackluster performance by the Italian as he made numerous errors defensively and didn’t offer anything attacking wise.
Eric Bailly – 9
The best defender on the pitch. The Ivorian was like a wall for United as he made some vital interceptions and was a leader from the back.
Victor Lindelof – 7
The Swedish definitely brought his World Cup form to his club and was alert throughout the match. He complimented Bailly perfectly and the duo could make a solid partnership for United.
Luke Shaw – 8
He looked like the old-inform left back from his Southampton days. Looked like he was waiting for this opportunity to prove his doubters wrong and wrapped up his performance with a good goal.
Andreas Pereira – 7
The youngster had a good match and provided some crucial passes going forward. He kept it neat and didn’t tinker much to show off his skills unnecessary.
Paul Pogba – 7
Converted a calm penalty early in the first half and was a commanding figure in the heart of the midfield. Although he became a little complacent as the game went on, overall a brilliant way to start off a season.
Fred – 6
The Brazilian had a decent debut for United as he kept his passes simple. However, he made some reckless tackles as the game went on, but a good debut for him.
Juan Mata – 6
Apart from that wasted chance to put United 2-0 in that situation, the Spaniard look tidy and was behind Shaw’s goal.
Alexis Sanchez – 5
Won the penalty for United and also created a superb chance for Lukaku, but he still lacks the X-factor which he had for Arsenal.
Marcus Rashford – 4
Looked cautious as the number 9, and lost possession quite a few times and didn’t offer much.
SUBSTITUTIONS
Lukaku – 3
Missed an open chance from a ball by Sanchez after coming on in the second half. Still not 100 per cent match fit.
McTominay – 5
Showed why he is rated so highly, was calm and precise with his passes after replacing Fred.
Fellaini – N/A
Did not offer much after coming late in the second half.