Southampton 0-3 Manchester United: Five things noticed, including “wow” star player

Five things noticed as Manchester United blew away Southampton in a 3-0 Premier League win on Saturday afternoon.

Erik ten Hag made two changes to his XI as Manchester United faced Southampton in the Premier League. Amad Diallo and Christian Eriksen started in place of Alejandro Garnacho and Casemiro.

The tie started fast, with Southampton dominating and forcing André Onana into several early saves.

Read More: Player Ratings – Southampton 0-3 Manchester United (Premier League)

The first significant action came when Diogo Dalot brought down Tyler Dibling in the area, with Onana saving the resulting penalty.

Minutes later, Matthijs de Ligt popped up to score his first goal from the club, nodding in Bruno Fernandes’ cross. Then, Marcus Rashford doubled the lead, scoring low to Aaron Ramsdale’s left.

United maintained control in the second half, and Joshua Zirkzee had another chance, which he failed to convert, but Alejandro Garnacho’s finish after coming off the bench sealed a 3-0 victory.

Here are five things noticed from the Premier League victory.

#1 – Ten Hag’s bold call

Despite Ten Hag publicly backing Casemiro during his pre-match press conference, choosing Eriksen over the Brazilian international was a bold call.

Eriksen seemed destined to leave Old Trafford this summer, but once it was confirmed he would stay, the Dutchman did not hesitate to use his abilities from the start, considering Casemiro’s poor form.

Eriksen played well in the pivot, looking composed on the ball and contributing defensively, although it is likely Manuel Ugarte will soon replace him in the team.

#2 – Redemption arcs loading

After 30 minutes, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that every Manchester United fan made the same noise as Dalot gave away the penalty.

Onana, who has often divided opinion, saved the Portuguese international’s graces and helped his own reputation.

The same can be said about Rashford. After many questioned why the 26-year-old was starting, he answered in style, scoring his much-needed first goal of the season.

#3 – De Ligt’s worries extinguished

During the international break, De Ligt received a lot of criticism after making multiple critical mistakes while away with the Netherlands.

However, against Southampton, he very firmly proved himself. With good defensive actions topped off with the opening goal in the first half, De Ligt continued to perform brilliantly, being awarded Player of the Match.

He is settling in well at United, and long may it continue.

#4 – Amad Diallo, wow

Once again, Amad shone for United. “I have worked hard all my life to have this opportunity with Man United,” he said ahead of kickoff.

He was Ten Hag’s brightest player on the pitch, relentlessly running at Southampton and, more often than not, either finding a pass or running beyond their defensive line.

Playing a full 90 minutes, Amad is finally nailing down himself a firm place within United’s first-team squad.

#5 – Huge improvement. Period.

This was by far the best performance United have shown this season, although Onana’s penalty save was a sliding-doors moment.

Garnacho, Rashford, and De Ligt all scoring while keeping a clean sheet is exactly what Ten Hag needed, and it will calm the club’s nerves.

As long as De Ligt is not injured, it’s a perfect day.

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