Manchester United’s Premier League campaign got off to a very convincing start on the south coast against a mediocre Bournemouth side. In the first half of the game, though, many would argue that Bournemouth were the better side but the play from both the sides was unsatisfying as a neutral. Manchester United opened the scoring through Juan Mata after two mistakes from Simon Francis paved the way for the opener.
The second half started on a really bright note. Attacking emphasis saw Wayne Rooney score the second for United and then a third followed from the debutant Zlatan Ibrahimović after his long range low drive found the bottom left corner of the net. Overall, for Jose Mourinho’s men, it was indeed a very comfortable afternoon where their keeper was hardly tested. Several positives to take from the game and we rate the players as to how they fared in the opener against Bournemouth.
David De Gea – 6/10
David De Gea as said earlier was hardly even tested by Bournemouth. On a sunny afternoon, he had little to do but unfortunately he couldn’t manage to keep a clean sheet. A stunner from Smith from the left side saw De Gea get beaten at his near post but considering everything it was a good game for United’s defence and their goalkeeper.
Antonio Valencia – 7/10
Antonio Valencia in the right-back position has really impressed and today too he put in the same display on the pitch. Multiple attacking forays down the right saw Bournemouth constantly having work to do and defensively Valencia was well organised and alert against the much adventurous full-back Charlie Daniels. An impressive show from this red devil would have not gone unnoticed from the manager.
Eric Bailly – 8/10
1 successful take-on, 2 interceptions, 3 tackles, 7 clearances and 93% passing accuracy; Eric Bailly once again had a fantastic match. He collected his third Man of the Match award after the game. His solid presence alongside the witty Blind saw United’s defence well organised and except for that one goal they conceded, United looked dominant throughout the game.
Daley Blind – 6.5/10
A silent game for the Dutchman doesn’t mean he put on a bad show. He complimented Bailly perfectly at the back today and it’s just like typical Daley Blind. Silent but he makes sure that he gets the job done.
Luke Shaw – 6/10
Luke Shaw looked a little out of touch today but under Mourinho, we can expect him to get back in touch soon enough and loose his rustiness.
Marouane Fellaini – 7/10
75 successful passes, 99% pass success, 5 successful tackles won, 2 long balls supplied, 2 aerial duels won. After Eric Bailly, Fellaini was the most impressive player on the pitch today. He seemed to take Mourinho’s trust very seriously and in the middle of the park, he was unmatched. A great game for the Belgian international and the United fans will be hoping that he continues this form.
Ander Herrera – 6.5/10
A silent beginning to the game for the Spaniard but steadily he grew into it. His creativity and vision were clearly witnessed and when given the chances in the future, United fans will be hoping that Herrera would improvise on this.
Juan Mata – 7/10
Juan Mata’s always the guy you can rely on to get into good positions at an important time. Taking advantage of the multiple errors of Simon Francis, Mata opened the scoring for United. Apart from this, just like several times in the past, he gelled well with his teammates.
Anthony Martial – 7/10
Martial got two assists to his name after a decent display today. Call it a mishit or whatever, he laid the ball perfectly for Rooney’s header for the second goal and in the third goal too, he cut inside and played a part, laying it off for Zlatan to run away, take touches and shoot. Martial is a promising youngster who’s blossoming and hopefully, for the United fans, he’ll deliver throughout the season.
Wayne Rooney – 7/10
Captain Rooney got off to a great start individually as well. Even though his pace has considerably dropped, Rooney looks sharp in other aspects of his game. Just like a typical poacher, he got the second important goal for United and there’s much to look forward to from the England captain.
Zlatan Ibrahimović – 7.5/10
Subdued at times but Zlatan once again has got off to a flier in his debut. A looming presence at the top of the pitch, he can be a defender’s nightmare. Much to hope for from this Swedish hero!
Stats courtesy: Squawka.com
