After a thrashing at Stamford Bridge, Manchester United responded well by overcoming Manchester City in a game that ended 1-0. It was a game of high importance to both managers, not because of the silverware involved but the poor run of games both the teams had coming into this game.
Manchester United fielded a stronger side than that of Manchester City, with both teams having sensational youngsters in the form of Rashford and Iheanacho.
Carrick was a silent guardian again
Michael Carrick may be 34 years old but the Englishman is still a sensational player for Manchester United. United’s defense had a composed guardian in front of them in the form of Michael Carrick, who sat deep while Herrera and Pogba did the work of pressing and pushing into City’s box.
His heat map indicates that he sat deep once again, helping out the defense in any way possible. One sensational moment was when he outran Aguero (Hard to believe, I know!).
It was a game of surprises
Pessimism surrounded the United defense when the lineup was out. Playing with two left-footed center backs was supposedly a bit risky but both Blind and Rojo were good, with Rojo being impeccable. Juan Mata won a fair share of headers for a player who’s weak trait is his height. The players who lost out to him might be having a hard time now.
Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia had a game of mixed fortunes. Luke Shaw’s pressing was pretty much into the other half assisting Rashford in the attack. Shaw probably had some moments to forget, with Navas toying around during one on ones.
