Leeds vs Manchester United | Player Ratings for the Red Devils

A pulsating performance in the Leeds vs Manchester United game on an eventful afternoon at Elland Road culminated into a significant result for Rangnick’s men as they ensured three crucial points away from home on Sunday. Despite wet conditions, both teams ensured they provided a compelling match-up, with the visitors eventually winning the game 2-4 considering a lapse in control during the second half.

A whistling header from a corner by Harry Maguire pushed United into the lead, with Bruno Fernandes subsequently doubling their lead before the end of the first half. A questionable piece of goalkeeping by David De Gea resulted in Leeds pulling a goal back early in the second half, followed by an exhilarating bit of play which saw the home side equalise within 24 seconds of pulling a goal back.

However, following the introduction of Fred and Anthony Elanga, the visitors grew increasingly in control of the Leeds vs Manchester United game, with both substitutes registering their name on the scoresheet late into the half. Within three minutes of his inclusion, Fred fired a brilliant goal past Meslier from a tight angle. Elanga wrapped it up for the visitors with a simple shot from a Fernandes pass.

Leeds vs Manchester United, Fred — Image Obtained via The Peoples Person

United desperately need to avoid draws and losses if they are to secure top-four at the end of the season. Although the team is yet to deliver consistent performances on the pitch, Ralf Rangnick will be looking to avoid dropping points in crucial fixtures and securing positive results heading into a demanding phase of the season.

Starting XI

David De Gea (GK) – 6/10: Despite being at fault for Leeds’ comeback goal on the afternoon, De Gea remained a composed figure for most of the ninety minutes on Sunday. With the team reliant on his form and experience, the Spaniard will be keen on making up for his error over the coming weeks.

Aaron Wan-Bisaaka (RB) – 7/10: Although having delivered a good defensive performance, Wan-Bissaka failed to provide adequate support to United’s progress down the flanks. With Diogo Dalot likely to return to the line-up, the English right-back will be keen on improving his technical attributes over the remainder of the campaign.

Victor Lindelof (RCB) – 7/10: A composed figure in the backline, Lindelof’s ball progression played a vital role in Fernandes’ goal against the Whites. With Raphael Varane likely to return to the starting line-up, it remains to be seen if the Swedish centre-back holds onto his place moving forward.

Harry Maguire (LCB) – 7/10: An excellent finish saw Harry Maguire end United’s abysmal goals/corner ratio on Sunday. Having delivered a confidence-boosting performance in the Leeds vs Manchester United game, the centre-back will be hoping to consistently improve over the remainder of the season.

Harry Maguire vs Leeds United:

1 goal
1 block
2/2 tackles won
1 interception
2 clearances
3/3 ground duels won
2/2 aerial duels won

[@FotMob] pic.twitter.com/vEaEg0JaTo

— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) February 20, 2022

Luke Shaw (LB) – 5/10: Having struggled in defence for most of the ninety minutes, Shaw emerged as the team’s weakest link in defence against Leeds. With Alex Telles likely to start the club’s mid-week European clash against Atletico Madrid, Shaw will be hoping to perform to his potential over the coming weeks.

Scott McTominay (CDM) – 5/10: Despite imposing himself as a physical nuisance to deal with, McTominay struggled to dictate play whilst committing several unnecessary fouls on Sunday. With Nemanja Matic in need of game-time, it remains to be seen if the Scotsman is granted a rest over the next couple of games for United.

Paul Pogba (CM) – 7/10: A lively first-half saw Paul Pogba at the heart of a handful of goal-scoring opportunities for the visitors at Elland Road. Although having been substituted earlier than expected, the Frenchman’s presence has significantly bolstered the team’s creative ability from the midfield in recent weeks.

Bruno Fernandes (CAM) – 7/10: Registering a goal and an assist, Fernandes delivered a refreshing performance on Sunday. Although the midfielder continues to frustrate during moments of the game, the Portuguese is likely to play a vital role in helping the team secure consistent results over the coming weeks.

4 – Bruno Fernandes is the first Manchester United player to score four league goals against Leeds United in a single season. Thorn. pic.twitter.com/UH5S6mZa8R

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) February 20, 2022

Jesse Lingard (RW) – 6/10: Having failed to make the most of his opportunity, Lingard remained an unimpactful addition to the starting line-up for the Leeds vs Manchester United game. However, with the schedule set to grow increasingly demanding, Lingard will be hoping to get more game-time over the coming months.

Jadon Sancho (LW) – 8/10: Excellent in possession alongside diligently carrying out his defensive duties, Sancho emerged amongst the team’s most lively threat across the attacking third against the Whites. The youngster has grown in confidence in recent weeks and Rangnick will be keen on extracting the best of his potential going forward.

Cristiano Ronaldo (ST) – 6/10: Although failing to register his name on the scoresheet, Ronaldo remained an available figure throughout his time on the pitch on Sunday. With Edinson Cavani’s availability unknown, Ronaldo will be hoping to make the best of his opportunities and increase his goal tally over the remainder of the season.

Substitutes

Fred (CM) – 7/10: An impactful cameo saw Fred’s brilliant finish help United take the lead late into the second half against Leeds. Having shown his desire to retain a starting spot, it remains to be seen if the Brazilian succeeds in pushing for a place in the line-ups over the coming weeks.

https://twitter.com/GoalsManchester/status/1495422726521032706

Anthony Elanga (RW) – 7/10: Having netted United’s winning goal on Sunday, Elanga will be keen on finding a place in the starting line-up over the remainder of the season. With the team looking significantly balanced in attack following his inclusion, it remains to be seen if Rangnick increases the youngster’s game-time over the coming weeks.

Raphael Varane (RCB) – 6/10: The most surprising exclusion on the evening, Varane only came off the bench late into the second half on Sunday. With Rangnick hinting at the Frenchman’s struggle with injuries, it remains to be seen if Varane seamlessly regains his place in the first XI over the next couple of games for United.

Follow AD for the latest Matchday Updates on Manchester United.