The return of Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford was the centre of the attraction when high-flying Manchester United hosted Newcastle United this afternoon. The stage was set and it had to be the legend himself who broke the deadlock late in the first half with a simple tap in. It was Ronaldo again to restore the lead just over the hour mark and a late strike of Bruno Fernandes cemented all three points. Substitute Jesse Lingard found the net in the stoppage time to make it 4-1.
Manchester United players rated in their incredible victory against Newcastle United.
David De Gea: 6
Has been incredible of late but was hardly tested except for a diving save to grab Matt Ritchie’s deflected attempt.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka: 7
Offered his presence at the back and did well against Allan Saint-Maximin on most occasions. Whipped in a few crosses, however, could have done a bit more in terms of attacking involvement.
Raphael Varane: 7
Composed once again with timely blocks, interceptions and tackles. Was in the right place at the right time to deal with the Magpies’ counter-attacking threats. Should have done better though to stop Saint-Maximin before he set it up for Javier Manquillo for the equalizer.
Harry Maguire: 6.5
Displayed his command both aerially and physically inside the box. Moved quickly out from the back but looked a bit nervy against the swift counter-attacks of Almiron and Saint-Maximin.
Luke Shaw: 8
A balanced display down the left as he not only made recovering runs to help the defence but also kept on creating chances with overlapping runs and link-up play. Set it up for Ronaldo’s second of the afternoon.
Nemanja Matic: 7.5
Much better than Fred as he managed the game well with his vast experience and vision. His lack of pace troubled him at times, also the final deliveries could have been better.
Paul Pogba: 8
Not his best outing, particularly after such a scintillating start this campaign. Made some crucial tackles but was losing duels far too frequently in the middle of the park. Continues to register assists though as he set it up for both Fernandes and Lingard late in the game to seal all three points.
Jadon Sancho: 5.5
Yet to do justice to his reputation as he failed to make an impact from the left-hand flank. Made some good runs but failed to find his teammates inside the box. Was taken off midway through the second half for Jesse Lingard.
Bruno Fernandes: 8
Had a few attempts off target. Covered a lot of ground as always, also his creative spark often led to goalscoring chances. Found the net eventually to make it 3-1 with 10 minutes remaining. Was taken off to be replaced by Anthony Martial moments later.
Mason Greenwood: 7.5
No goal for the teenager this time but his deflected strike was spilt by Freddie Woodman leading to Ronaldo’s first goal just before the break. Made way for Donny van de Beek late in the match.
Cristiano Ronaldo: 9
One simply can’t write him off. At 36, the iconic Portuguese showed why he is still such a vital player for his side. Although Woodman was at fault on both occasions, his poaching traits and sharpness made the difference in this engaging encounter.
Manchester United Substitutes Vs Newcastle United
Jesse Lingard: 7
Scored in the closing minutes to make it 4-1.
Antony Martial: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Donny van de Beek: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
