Here’s how Manchester United players fared in the 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Super Cup.
De Gea- 6.5
Made some fine saves to thwart Kroos and Benzema in particular, and was unable to save both goals. Which wasn’t his fault really, and was down to poor defending from the back line. Commanding presence at the back. Should thank the post for denying Madrid twice and saving his blushes.
Valencia- 7
Had some moments of magic as he tamed Marcelo, and his cross for Fellaini was simply majestic. Was caught out of position at times, but was lucky that Smalling and Lindelof covered up for him.
Smalling- 7.5
Surprisingly good performance from ‘Mike’ Smalling, who played as if his life depended on this match. Made many important tackles and interceptions, and if he can be consistent this season, he could very easily become one of the first names on Mourinho’s team sheet.
Lindelof- 6.0
Was out of position for both goals, and wasn’t quick enough at times. Looked better than in his pre-season outings, though. Has ample of potential, but isn’t a reliable presence at the back yet.
Darmian- 6.5
Decent performance at left-back, and dealt well with Bale, which was also partly because of luck. Looks better at left-back than Blind, even if he doesn’t possess as much vision as the Dutchman.
Matic- 7.5
Orchestrated United’s play in the midfield, and already looks at home in this team. Made a couple of significant tackles, and his fine effort forced a scramble from Navas which led to Lukaku’s goal.
Herrera- 6.5
Didn’t look at his usual best, and was sometimes sloppy in possession. He was great going forwards, though, and his superb cross really should’ve been converted by Pogba.
Pogba- 4.5
Yet another pathetic performance in another big game. Missed two great chances due to his selfishness, and looked silly when his tricks and passes didn’t come off. Needs to improve his performances immediately and become more consistent otherwise Mourinho could eventually be forced to do the unthinkable and drop him.
Mkhitaryan- 6.5
Didn’t follow up on his brilliant pre-season form, but that was partly due to the fact that United struggled to maintain possession. Could’ve scored after a brilliant nutmeg on Ramos, but unluckily slipped just outside the box. His through pass for Rashford was sublime as well.
Lingard- 6.0
Ineffective performance at left wing from the young Englishman. Was dealt well with by Carvajal, and his speed and vision weren’t useful here. Hauled off at half-time to give way to Rashford.
Lukaku- 6.5
Mixed performance from the Belgian. Scored his first competitive goal for United and his hold up play was pretty good, but how he missed THAT sitter from seven yards out is still a mystery.
SUBSTITUTES
Rashford (for Lingard)- 6.5
Made an immediate impact as he made a mockery of Carvajal with some beautiful footwork, but wasn’t too effective later on. Missed a good chance as he fired a tame effort at Navas when sent through on goal by Mkhitaryan.
Fellaini (for Herrera)- 6.0
Came on for Herrera in the second half. Was a commanding presence at No. 10, but didn’t do much to change the course of the match. Was culpable of missing a glorious chance when he should’ve hit a better header from a pinpoint Valencia cross. How Mourinho trusts him in such fast paced games ahead of Mata and Martial is baffling at times.
Subs Not Used – Romero, Blind, Carrick, Mata, Martial.