Manchester United 4-0 AZ Alkmaar: 3 Talking Points

Manchester United ended the group stages of the Europa League in a thumping 4-0 goal fest win over AZ.

The Red Devils netted four goals in the span of ten minutes in the second half with Ashley Young breaking the deadlock with a superb strike, Mason Greenwood netting two goals, and Juan Mata calmly converting a penalty.

 

1. United Group Winners

The win ensures that United end the group as its winners. While a point to brag there are also tactical advantages to being the table-toppers.

This way, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side won’t be in the lot to face the Champions League dropout teams who tend to be tough competition for the Europa League sides.

This momentum will be vital, as it is clear that United are targeting this piece of silverware, their most viable route to Champions League football next season.

 

2. Brace From Mason Greenwood 

The academy graduate, still a teenager, cemented the love of the fans with his performance on Friday. From the start of the season supporters have been hungry to see him get the full ninety minutes of football.

Now, he has netted yet again when trusted with a start and is also the first Manchester United player since Wayne Rooney to be under the age of 19 and still score atleast 3 goals in a single European competition.

More of the same, please.

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3. Matic Was Woeful

Nemanja Matic failed to impress on his return from injury.

Often sloppy in the midfield, his once crucial holding skills and defensive brilliance often tended to slow down the pace of the play and failed to complement James Garner in the heart of the field.

It is fair to say that he can’t be a serious contender to oust the starting spots of Scott McTominay and Fred. In fact, a winter departure still looks to be a likely possibility at this rate.