Herrera & Blind among stand outs – Manchester United Player Ratings

Here’s how the United players fared in the 2-0 victory over Ajax in the Europa League Final-

Romero- 7

Assured performance from the Argentinian, who saved everything that was thrown at him. Didn’t have to face any difficult shot but was dependable on every occasion.

Valencia- 7

Back into the line-up after being rested for three matches due to fatigue. Decent and solid performance for the skipper of the night, as his usual surging runs rattled the Ajax defence. Was pretty good in defence as well, and his rocket strike unfortunately didn’t go into the back of the net.

Smalling- 7.5

Very neat display from the defender, who dealt with every attack that he had to face. Was solid in air, and won the header which proved to be the assist for Mkhitaryan’s goal that gave them breathing space.

Blind- 8

Superb performance from the Dutch maestro, who didn’t give Dolberg and Traore any space to create any menace. His tackle which stopped Traore at the last gasp pretty much summed up his fantastic outing. Could’ve reignited his United career with a single display.

Darmian- 7.5

Unusually looked like a typical Italian defender who stuck to old school defending. A no-nonsense display at left back and won the battle with the pacey Traore. Threw his body on the line for one shot which could’ve been dangerous had it not been blocked.

Herrera- 8

Another brilliant performance from the midfielder, who gave his all for his team. Dictated the game well and was full of vigour and energy. His direction-changing pass started the attack for the first goal, and his positioning was exceptional as he made a couple of decisive interceptions. Gave a truly inspirational man-of-the-match speech.

Pogba- 7.5

Looks to have repaid his mammoth transfer fee with a single goal. Lacked concentration in the beginning as some of his passes were poor, but became much better as the match went on. Dominated the battle in the middle of the park, and surely he would have a way better second season.

Fellaini- 8

Was booked, but was one of United’s best player on the pitch. Assisted Pogba’s opener, while also winning 11 aerial duels, which is a European final record. Was menacing in an advanced midfield position. A complete contrast to the player who was ridiculed by everyone.

Mkhitaryan- 7

Frustrating player who drifts in and out of games, but he made up for a poor first half with a crucial goal that sealed the win. Clearly United’s hero in the Europa League.

Mata- 7.5

Excellent display from the Spaniard. Was involved in the build up to both the goals, and his super cross in the 9th minute was unlucky to have not been reached by Fellaini. Worked very hard and tracked back more than his teammates.

Rashford- 6

Was dangerous for Ajax’s defence due to his pace, but unfortunately nothing went his way. Couldn’t do anything exceptional, and was taken off for Martial in the second half.

SUBSTITUTES

Lingard- 6.5

Replaced Mkhitaryan in the 74th minute. Was energetic, but was guilty of missing a brilliant chance when one-on-one, which apparently irked Mourinho on the touchline.

Martial- 6

Came on for Rashford with six minutes of normal time left. Didn’t get any real opportunity but was dangerous for a tired Ajax defence.

Rooney- 6

Received an outgoing reception, as this could very possibly be his swansong appearance for his team.

Substitutes Not Used- De Gea, Fosu-Mensah, Jones, Carrick