It feels like Manchester United’s breakthrough has finally arrived this season. Erik ten Hag’s men broke loose from months of frustration to deliver a performance long overdue.
At first, it looked like it would be another horrid night at Old Trafford but this time on Boxing Day. Aston Villa grabbed a two-goal lead in the first half and maintained that lead into half-time.
Despite Villa’s dominance on the scoreboard, United had not played all that badly. They were creating good chances and hurting Villa.
But it was after the interval that United would switch into fifth gear and punish the visitors with their devastating press.
Alejandro Garnacho was at the heart of United’s turnaround but Rasmus Hojlund’s first goal for the Reds, which turned out to be the winner, will steal many of the headlines.
Man United Player Ratings
Andre Onana – 6
Stepped in whenever he was required. Some question-marks over Villa’s opening goal but we’ll give him the benefit of the doubt.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 7
Made a couple of great blocks. United mainly attacked down their left side so wasn’t very prominent in the final third.
Raphael Varane – 6
Back in the side after missing the trip to West Ham with illness. Did well.
Jonny Evans – 7
Seems to do well whenever he has played. Made one stunning block to deny John McGinn from scoring a second goal.
Diogo Dalot – 7
A constant threat down his left flank.
Christian Eriksen – 7
Undeniably, his presence in midfield improves United’s possession play immensely.
Kobbie Mainoo – 8
What a personality at his young age. Does not look out of place at all.
Alejandro Garnacho – 9
The man of the moment. His stunning rise continues as he turns into one of the talismanic players of this side.
Bruno Fernandes – 8
Continues to pull the strings. One of the division’s absolute best creators.
Marcus Rashford – 8
Finally, the 26-year-old looked like he had a spring in his step. Dangerous at all times.
Rasmus Hojlung – 8
What a moment for the striker. At the 15th time of asking, he has finally broken his Premier League duck and the relief was there for everyone to see in the celebrations.
More threats from the start is needed
Man United did exactly what’s expected of them. They performed creditably well.
They should keep the momentum on in order to fight for a better finish.
This is what I’ve been saying, the players should be fighting for every ball irrespective of the team they play against.
I always say that the best form of defense is to attack relentlessly.
We have the players that can do that, what they need is to play massive attack and massive defense.
Anytime I watch Man U play Man City, I always get angry with the manner my team plays. You don’t show respect to any team at all. Play as if you are superior to the team you are playing against.
Take the ball to your opponent’s area and force them to defend. This is exactly the tactics Guadiola uses in any team he coaches.