Manchester United secured a vital three points in their Championship campaign with a hard-fought victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, though the performance revealed both promising signs and lingering concerns for Erik ten Hag's side.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Andre Onana (8/10) - The Cameroonian shot-stopper delivered a commanding performance between the sticks, pulling off several crucial saves that ultimately preserved United's lead. His distribution was sharp and decision-making flawless, proving exactly why Ten Hag brought him to Old Trafford.
Diogo Dalot (6/10) - Provided decent width going forward but occasionally found himself exposed defensively. The Portuguese international worked hard throughout but lacked the final product to truly influence the game.
Raphael Varane (7/10) - The experienced Frenchman brought much-needed composure to United's backline, reading the game intelligently and making several important interceptions. His partnership with Evans provided a solid foundation.
Jonny Evans (7/10) - Another mature display from the veteran defender who slotted in seamlessly alongside Varane. His organisational skills and positioning helped nullify Sunderland's attacking threats.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (6/10) - Reliable defensively as always but offered limited attacking threat down the left flank. The Englishman stuck to his defensive duties diligently throughout the encounter.
Midfield Maestros
Kobbie Mainoo (8/10) - The young midfielder continues to impress with his remarkable maturity and technical ability. Mainoo controlled the tempo beautifully, broke up play effectively, and distributed the ball with intelligence beyond his years.
Scott McTominay (7/10) - The Scottish international made his presence felt with powerful runs from deep and provided crucial support in both boxes. His physicality proved problematic for Sunderland's midfield throughout.
Bruno Fernandes (7/10) - While not at his absolute creative best, the United captain worked tirelessly and produced moments of quality that stretched the Sunderland defence. His leadership on the pitch remained invaluable.
Attacking Threat
Alejandro Garnacho (6/10) - The young winger showed flashes of his electrifying pace and trickery but struggled to find consistent end product. His direct running caused problems but the final ball often eluded him.
Rasmus Hojlund (6/10) - Worked relentlessly against physical Sunderland defenders but received limited service. The Danish striker's movement was intelligent, though he rarely threatened the opposition goal.
Marcus Rashford (5/10) - A frustrating evening for the England international who struggled to influence the game from the left wing. Rashford appeared isolated at times and failed to link effectively with teammates.
Substitutes Make Impact
Christian Eriksen (7/10) - The Danish playmaker brought immediate composure and creativity when introduced, helping United regain control during a nervy period in the second half.
Antony (6/10) - Provided fresh energy and direct running in the latter stages, though his decision-making in crucial areas still requires refinement.
Sergio Reguilon (6/10) - Slotted in competently during the closing stages to help see out the victory, offering additional defensive stability.
Manager's Performance
Erik ten Hag (7/10) - The Dutch tactician got his team selection largely right and made timely substitutions that helped secure the three points. However, questions remain about United's overall cohesion and attacking fluidity.
While the victory provides crucial momentum in United's promotion push, Ten Hag will know significant improvements are needed if his side are to maintain their challenge at the top of the Championship table.
