Manchester United defeated Arsenal 2-0 to kick off their pre-season tour of the United States on Saturday.
Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho scored two goals in the first 45 minutes. Tom Heaton was the only player who took part in both halves for the Red Devils.
New signing Andre Onana was not included in the squad.
He only joined training with his new teammates yesterday but may be involved in United’s friendly against Real Madrid on July 26.
Here are our three talking points from this game.
Erik ten Hag lives up to competitive mantra
Even though this was just a pre-season game, Ten Hag will be delighted with his players’ display.
Arsenal enjoyed early possession, but United came back strongly into the game.
The Dutchman said he ‘does not play friendly games’, and his team lived up to his words. They showed aggression and took the game seriously.
The high-profile clash was good entertainment for the fans at the sold-out MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Kobbie Mainoo could have a big season
Mainoo put in yet another impressive performance from the number six position. He started behind Mason Mount and Fernandes.
The youngster often dropped between the two centre-backs, allowing the full-backs to adopt attacking positions.
He completed 96% of his passes and won 100% of his duels. He capped off his bright display with an assist to Fernandes.
It looks like United have another superstar on their hands.
A massive goal for Jadon Sancho
Sancho started from the number nine spot as he did in the previous two friendlies.
He took advantage of a disastrous error from Arsenal centre-back Gabriel and raced towards Aaron Ramsdale. He showed quick acceleration and fired in a powerful strike.
The Gunners’ shot-stopper should have done better, but credit goes to Sancho, who backed himself to find the net from a tight angle.
Hopefully, this goal proves to be a catalyst for him to revive his United career.
