Player Ratings: Manchester United 2-1 Leicester City

Manchester United emerged 2-1 winners against Leicester City at Old Trafford in the opening game of the 2018-19 Premier League season. A Paul Pogba penalty and a Luke Shaw strike saw United go 2-0 up, before Leicester drew one back through Jamie Vardy.

United opened the campaign with three points in their kitty. This will give Jose Mourinho the satisfaction after a difficult pre-season and all the issues with the transfer window.

Here’s how the Red Devils fared during the encounter:

De Gea – 8

The Spaniard pulled off a superb save from James Maddison in the 29th minute. He also helped the side after making another alert stop from Demarai Gray.

Darmian – 4

Was filled with errors during crucial spell. Didn’t offer anything going front. Could he be on his way to Italy?

Bailly – 8

Probably the best defender on the pitch. The Ivorian made some vital tackles as Leicester threatened to equalise. He led the defence well and was instrumental in the backline staying strong.

WATCH: What Happened Between Pogba And Sanchez

https://youtu.be/fVuCdUD_-8w

Lindelof – 7

The Swedish defender was alert and made some telling interceptions. He looked solid with Bailly beside him at the centre of defence.

Shaw – 8

He was impressive at left-back and showed eagerness all around. Was brilliant to react for his goal, and was commanding going forward.

https://twitter.com/SkySportsStatto/status/1028024110729912322

Pereira – 7

The player showed grit and guile in midfield and got the crucial passes forward, and was able to complete most of the passes to Sanchez & Co.

Pogba – 7

Scored the penalty inside two minutes and led the side well with precision and character in the first half. Was a bit lacklustre as the match progressed.

Fred – 6

The Brazilian played with a fast tempo and passed adventurously. Got a bit reckless as the game went on.

Mata – 6

Wasted an excellent chance to put United ahead in what could have been a 2-0 situation. He looked tidy and neat, and bagged the assist for Shaw’s goal.

Sanchez – 4

Won the penalty for United and also set Lukaku with an open chance, but overall, his game lacked the finesse. His final ball was disappointing,

Rashford – 4

Wasn’t effective as a number 9. Looked vulnerable in possession and didn’t offer much.

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SUBSTITUTIONS:

Lukaku – 3

Missed a glorious chance to give United a 2-0 cushion after coming on in the 2nd half.

McTominay – 5

Showed some precision and assurance after replacing Fred.

Fellaini – N/A

Didn’t have much to do after coming in late on.