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MANCHESTER UNITED achieved an easy 4-0 triumph against Sabah in their first Champions League match of the season.
Michael Carrick’s team dominated the game, securing a three-goal advantage before the break with goals from Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, and Benjamin Sesko.
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Credit: Getty
Lisandro Martinez netted the fourth goal in the second half, making for a stress-free evening for United and a strong start in Europe.
SunSport’s Samuel Luckhurst provided his thoughts on the players at Old Trafford.
Senne Lammens – 6
Had minimal work but should have been tested by Joy-Lance Mickels with a free header at 1-0.
A peaceful evening for Lammens following a disappointing performance at Everton.
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Noussair Mazraoui – 6
Did not manage to surpass Diogo Dalot ahead of the upcoming derby.
Showed signs of rust after the World Cup, lacking precision in the final third while Bryan Mbeumo received little assistance.
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Leny Yoro – 7
Made his first league start, striving to make an impact from the beginning.
Mickels’ chance highlighted how exposed United can be, though Yoro will likely head back to the bench against City.
Lisandro Martinez – 7
Being the only defender not rotated after the Everton match, Martinez offered stability and remained calm despite sporadic threats from Kaheem Parris.
He scored from a rebound, and like Lammens, had a relatively easy evening.
Patrick Dorgu – 6
Made his first start at left-back under Carrick, yet the position seemed unfamiliar for someone known for his strong left-back performances at Lecce.
Committed a few careless errors but regained confidence to assist Matheus Cunha’s opening goal.
Kobbie Mainoo – 8
Once again, the standout performer for United at Old Trafford, executing a defense-splitting lob that Bruno Fernandes missed after failing to connect with Benjamin Sesko.
Mainoo was commanding and stable throughout the match.
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Youri Tielemans – 7
Sat out the second half after showcasing his excellent awareness by setting up Bruno Fernandes for the second goal.
This was Tielemans’ most creative display, which is what is anticipated against newcomers in the Champions League.
Bryan Mbeumo – 6
Though he didn’t find the net, he was actively involved in United’s numerous attacking efforts.
Frequently made runs into the penalty box before being substituted in the second half.
Matheus Cunha – 7
Returned to the wing and scored his first goal of the season after being left out of the Brazil squad. Almost netted again with a low shot.
Based on this performance, if Carrick opts for a strikerless setup against City, it could be advantageous to have Cunha on the left.
Bruno Fernandes – 7
Could have assisted Benjamin Sesko before netting United’s second goal, essentially clinching the match.
Fernandes was keen to make an impact on United’s Champions League return, and perhaps he could be rested for the upcoming match against Brighton in the Cup.
Credit: Reuters
Credit: Getty
Benjamin Sesko – 7
Displayed determination on his first start since May 3 and could have scored had Fernandes delivered a better pass.
Worked diligently and found the net just before halftime, marking his second goal in consecutive games. He deserves another start soon.
Subs
Mason Mount – 6
Returned from injury as a substitute in the second half.
Played in a central midfield role where he is expected to feature more as he regains his fitness.
Joshua Zirkzee – 6
His flick resulted in a goal from Martinez on the rebound.
Andrey Santos – 6
Had a brief appearance on the field.
Shea Lacey – 6
Made his debut in European competition.
Harry Amass – 6
Made his first appearance for United since May 2025.
