Manchester United kicked off their pre-season tour of the USA with a 2-1 win over Premier League rivals West Ham United.
It was a breathless start in stark contrast to the Leeds game, as Rasmus Hojlund struck the post in the opening minute. Alphonse Areola’s moment of madness soon after gave Bruno Fernandes a penalty, which he dispatched to give Man Utd an early lead.
United continued to probe with purpose in a great attacking half that was missing another goal, but it would have left Man Utd fans with plenty to be positive about.
The same pattern continued in the second half, as Fernandes atoned for a one-on-one miss with a breathtaking finish soon after to put United 2-0 up.
Jarrod Bowen injected some spice into the game with a nice goal to pull one back, but United saw out the threat to secure the win.
Changes interrupted the flow of the game, but Ruben Amorim will be pleased that he saw many things to build on.
Manchester United player ratings vs West Ham
Altay Bayindir – 6.5
Attack a cross with purpose to clear it away in the first half. Fairly secure afterwards.
Matthijs de Ligt – 6.5
No mistake like at Leeds and defended calmly, even though he was guilty of playing it aimlessly on occasion.
Leny Yoro – 8
A brilliant cross-field pass created a chance out of nothing. It continues his evolution into a complete centre-back.
Ayden Heaven – 7.5
Earned United’s penalty when Areola felled him in the box. Calm as usual in the build-up.
Amad – 6.5
Was skinned on a couple of occasions in defence, and the attacks were concentrated through Dorgu. Scored from an offside position with a nice finish.
Patrick Dorgu – 8
A constant nuisance to build on his Leeds display as he combined physicality with attacking thrust.
Manuel Ugarte – 9
Played like a man possessed in midfield, overwhelming West Ham with physicality and zip in his passing. Different class.
Bruno Fernandes – 7.5
His goal from the spot was never in doubt. Missed an easy chance in the second half before scoring a difficult one.
Kobbie Mainoo – 8
Showed the quickness Ruben Amorim urged him to show as he kept the play ticking and got into duels. Won the ball for United’s second.
Matheus Cunha – 7.5
No direct goal involvements, but his ball-carrying and defensive work is so important to United’s structure.
Rasmus Hojlund – 7
Started well and with purpose as he ran the channels and made a nuisance of himself. A goal was the only thing missing.
Substitutes
Harry Maguire – 7.5
Leader of the backline in a calm and composed display.
Luke Shaw – 7
Amorim called him ‘world-class’ in the buildup, and he showed in glimpses that he’s still got it.
Tyler Fredricson – 6.5
Had a nervy moment or two, but has clearly earned Amorim’s trust to become a proper first-team player.
Diego Leon – 6
A little sloppy in possession as he builds an understanding with his new teammates. Not lacking in energy and effort.
Diogo Dalot – 6
Not much involvement as United attacked down Leon’s side, and so did West Ham.
Toby Collyer – 7
Went flying into challenges and showed for the ball every time in an encouraging display.
Casemiro – 6.5
Kept it simple and combative in an under-the-radar display.
Mason Mount – 7
Ran around with purpose and energy, but the final ball was lacking.
Jack Fletcher – 6.5
Hurried West Ham by pressing from the front. Eager to make an impact.
Chido Obi – 6
Remained peripheral as West Ham pushed for an equaliser late on.
