On Saturday, Manchester United displayed the true spirit of the Red Devils as they came back from a goal down to secure a famous 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Manchester derby. Eric ten Haag’s compact deployment plan in the center of the park paid dividends in the first half, as City looked unusually flat and flustered. But Pep Guardiola’s side eventually took the lead in the second half, and it looked like United had no answer. However, the Red Devils never gave up and Bruno Fernandes equalized in controversial circumstances before a red-hot Marcus Rashford scored the winner. The heroics of the Manchester derby was made possible by the performances of three players who have had to settle for a place on the bench for most of the season: Aaron Van Bissaka, Fred and Tyrell Malazia. Van Bissaka came close to leaving the club in January, but he proved his worth after the World Cup and against City, he also shone in attack. Fred’s relentless pressure and energy was simply necessary, while Malazia’s serious defensive style and tenacity meant City had little to no joy down the left flank. With Ten Haag making Old Trafford a fortress, this Manchester United in a new makeover finally reflects the spirit of the old United.
Manchester United displayed their famous ‘never give up’ attitude as they came from behind to secure a famous 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Manchester derby on Saturday.
Eric ten Haag the compact deployment plan in the center of the park paid dividends in the first half as City looked unusually flat and flustered.
But Pep Guardiola’s side eventually took the lead in the second half, losing substitute Jack Grealish, and at that point it looked like United had no answer to City’s attempts to break and pass the ball.
The heroics of the Manchester derby
However, as has happened more than once this season, “red devils” they came back and how! Bruno Fernandes equalized in controversial circumstances before a red-hot Marcus Rashford scored the winner.
And while it’s only natural that the Mancunian should get all the plaudits, it’s the performances of three players who have had to settle for a place on the bench for most of the season that deserve note.
Sir Alex Ferguson had a few confidants who didn’t play that much but came to life during important events.
Fred vs KDB today… pic.twitter.com/RcOZOMpixD
— centered devils. (@centredevils) January 14, 2023
Aaron Van Bissaka came close to leaving the club in January, but he proved his worth after the World Cup and against City, he also shone in attack.
His contribution to the defense was never in doubt, but it was great to see him push the team on just when City looked like they were running away from the fight. He has always played well against big teams and he showed it again on Saturday.
Not the most attractive player to look out for, Van Bissaka did a good job on the right flank and definitely deserves a longer stay based on this game.
Much has been made of Fred and his wayward passing and that his combination with Scott McTominay is one of the worst midfield pairings the club has seen.
But when he’s given license to roam and do his thing, there’s no one better than a Brazilian. Against teams that like to hold the ball, Fred’s relentless pressure and energy is simply necessary.
The trio proves its worth
Unsurprisingly, Ten Haag has played for the Brazil national team in big games against Chelsea, Tottenham and now City. His play was reminiscent of Ander Herrera’s against Chelsea’s Eden Hazard.
Tyrell Malazia lost his place after the first Manchester derby, but with Luke Shaw at left centre-back, the Dutch defender proved his worth.
His serious defensive style and tenacity meant City had little to no joy down the left flank and on this evidence he deserves to play more.
Ten witch makes Old Trafford a fortress, and this Manchester United in a new makeover finally reflects the spirit of the old United.
