The good days seem to be back at Old Trafford. The last time the atmosphere at Old Trafford was this vociferous and rapturous, Sir Alex Ferguson was still calling the shots as Manchester United were presented their 20th league title on the penultimate weekend of the 2012-13 season. It has been a rough ride for United fans since then, but given what transpired last night against QPR, the ride henceforth should be an immensely exciting one. New record signing Angel Di Maria called the shots as he scored the first, and played a role in each of the other three to drive United to a 4-0 win. Let’s take a look at the Player Ratings for the Manchester United players in Louis van Gaal’s first win at the helm of the club.
David De Gea – 6/10
Mix-up with Rojo almost cost United a goal, but De Gea made amends with a good save from Kranjcar. Looks ever so solid in goal for United.
Rafael – 7/10
This has to be Rafael’s season to prove his worth at United. Seems far more effective in an attacking sense than both Young and Valencia. Looked pumped up for the occasion and linked well with Herrera.
Jonny Evans – 6.5/10
Seems more at ease in a 4-man defence. Made a fantastic block to deny Phillips in the first half.
Tyler Blackett – 6.5/10
Blackett is growing into a regular role at United, but there were one or two moments of hesitation including letting Vargas through on goal at the end.
Marcos Rojo – 6/10
QPR offered little in an attacking sense down the right flank, but Rojo looked solid defensively and pushed forward at every opportunity. A nice, quiet start to his United career.
Daley Blind – 7.5/10
Angel Di Maria may hog the headlines, but Blind completed 107 of his 112 passes last evening and bossed the midfield. Could be United’s most important signing this season. No Carrick, No Fellaini, No Problem!
Ander Herrera – 7.5/10
Grew into the game and took his chance well after Rooney set him up with the perfect ball. Returned the favour to the skipper with an assist and linked well with the likes of Di Maria and Mata.
Di Maria – 8.5/10
Man of the match performance on his OT debut. Beautiful inswinging freekick to score his first goal for United and looked a menace all evening. Set up Mata with the most gorgeous assist. The Premier League now has another superstar to look forward to.
Juan Mata – 7/10
Atoned for his early miss with a calm finish in the second half. Combined well with Di Maria and Rooney and looks far more happier alongside players suited to his style.
Wayne Rooney – 7/10
Perfectly weighted assist for Herrera’s goal and a well taken goal late on in the first half. Landmark 175th goal for the Englishman.
Robin van Persie – 6/10
Still doesn’t look anywhere near as sharp as he could be. But the performance improved from the Burnley game. Hopefully the Falcao signing inspires RvP to lift his game.
Subs:
Falcao – 5/10
Nice cameo appearance from the Columbian. Linked up well with RVP on one occasion.
Valencia – 5/10
Came on for Rafael and created one or two openings from the right flank.
Januzaj – 5/10
Unselfish at the end when he could have played in van Persie. Should get more opportunities to start, but where?