Manchester United 3-1 Arsenal: 5 talking points as Antony and Rashford handled Erik Ten Hag his forth win.
In a thrilling 3-1 victory, Manchester United overcame league-leading Arsenal in the Premier League.
After finishing last just a few weeks ago, Erik ten Hag’s team has moved up to fourth in the standings thanks to goals from Antony and Marcus Rashford (2).
Here are the five points to discuss:
1. Antony Debut
The previous time Anthony made his Manchester United debut against a fierce opponent, he scored. Anthony was a high-priced signing. The past has now been rewritten.
After spending £85 million to move to Old Trafford, Antony made his debut against Arsenal and, like Anthony Martial did against Liverpool seven years prior, secured the victory with a goal.
The Brazilian demonstrated his eagerness to be at Old Trafford with a strong performance in which he was not hesitant to express himself, and United supporters were overjoyed for their new player.
2. Marcus Rashford performing at his peak
In United’s opening two games, which were complete disasters for the team, Marcus Rashford struggled, and many questioned whether or not he should continue to play going forward.
However, he has since regained his mojo. He attempted to stage a comeback with a goal against Liverpool, an assist against Leicester, and two goals with an assist against Arsenal.
His goals have all been scored via a left-side out to in run behind defenses. Rashford has always been most dangerous here, so it’s good to see him return to it.
3. Erik ten Hag’s display of skill against elite clubs
Ironically, it was Arsenal supporters who advised Erik ten Hag to adapt like Arteta did after United’s 4-0 loss to Brentford.
It was clear how Ten Hag modified his setup against Liverpool to help United win the match. In if that wasn’t enough, they have now observed firsthand how adaptable Erik ten Hag is.
United did not seem to have much fun during the major games last season. However, based on the games played thus far, this season might be different.
4. Manchester United back four cameo
With just two goals allowed in the previous four games, United’s defense line once again held their own against one of the league’s most potent offensive teams thus far this season.
By handling Gabriel Jesus with force and tenacity, Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martnez strengthened what appears to be one of the league’s greatest defensive partnerships.
With his excellent handling of Gabriel Martinelli and outstanding offensive performance tonight, Diogo Dalot continued to be one of United’s most remarkable players.
5. Manchester United must yet develop
Despite being entirely different from their first two games, Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils still have a long way to go in many areas, which is to be anticipated given the early stage of the season.
United frequently displayed immaturity both defensively and offensively. Later on, with the help of the substitutions, they were able to control the game better, but earlier on, they gave Arsenal far too many open doors.
These instances will surely be highlighted to Ten Hag’s players and used by the coaching staff to help the players get better moving forward.
