Manchester United vs Norwich City | Player Ratings for the Red Devils

We have compiled the Manchester United player ratings in their win against Norwich City in the Premier League. Cristiano Ronaldo, yet again, reigned supreme on a sunny afternoon at Old Trafford as a mesmerizing hat-trick by the Portuguese striker ensured the Red Devils secured their first win in three outings on Saturday.

Although Manchester United, once again, appeared to have crumbled under pressure, conceding two after leading by the same, a vital victory against Norwich City means that Ralf Rangnick’s now find themselves just three points behind fourth-placed Tottenham Hotspur ahead of their upcoming fixture.

A surprisingly dominant start saw United pressurize the opposition from the first whistle. Anthony Elanga’s intelligent bit of play saw Ronaldo capitalise on a relatively easy goal-scoring opportunity as United opened the scoring before the Portuguese’s blistering header saw them double their lead. However, a lapse in concentration soon by United’s defence resulted in a poor error as a clinical finish ensured the visitors stayed in the game going into the break.

While United remained the favourites for three points well into the second half, the Canaries soon equalised following another show of indiscipline within the hosts’ defensive line. However, with the game tied at 2-2, a whistling free-kick by Ronaldo ensured the Red Devils found their way back from another potentially underwhelming result as they look forward to their trip to Anfield facing Liverpool next Tuesday.

Starting XI

David De Gea (GK) – 7/10: Another impressive performance saw De Gea ensure that United remained in contention for the victory throughout the game. Having pulled off a couple of crucial saves, the Spaniard emerged amongst the team’s most impressive players on the afternoon.

David De Gea, Manchester United player ratings, Norwich City — Image Obtained Via Theathletic

Diogo Dalot (RB) – 6/10: Although having been caught out in defence on a handful of occasions, Dalot delivered a relatively decent performance on Saturday. Having shown promising improvement since gaining regular game-time, the full-back will be keen on remaining consistent over the remainder of the season.

Harry Maguire (RCB) – 5/10: Whilst having avoided any errors in defence, Maguire remained a relatively unconvincing presence in the backline. With much to improve on, the centre-back will be keen on redeeming himself over the coming weeks.

Victor Lindelof (LCB) – 4/10: A string of poor judgement calls saw Lindelof fail to deliver an impactful performance against Norwich. However, with Raphael Varane unlikely to return anytime soon, the Swedish international will be keen on contributing to the team’s prospects over the coming weeks.

Alex Telles (LB) – 6/10: A notable performance by Telles saw him register an assist. But he also struggled to cope with Norwich’s counter-attacks on Saturday. However, with Luke Shaw potentially out for the remainder of the season, the Brazilian will be keen on delivering impactful performances, moving forward.

Paul Pogba (CM) – 5/10: The exclusion of Nemanja Matic saw Pogba deployed into a deeper role within the midfield on Saturday. Although he failed to majorly impact the game, the Frenchman’s contributions will be key to United’s prospects of securing European football over the coming weeks.

Jesse Lingard (CM) – 5/10: A surprising inclusion in the starting line-up. Lingard delivered a notable performance in the Manchester United vs Norwich City game. Although having failed to register a goal contribution, the midfielder succeeded in contributing to the team’s transitions during his time on the pitch.

Bruno Fernandes (CAM) – 4/10: Another disappointing performance saw Fernandes remain an indisciplined figure throughout the ninety minutes. Having severely underperformed in recent weeks, the midfielder is likely to face the wrath of the fanbase if he fails to improve his overall contribution over the coming weeks.

Anthony Elanga (RW) – 6/10: Having played a crucial part in the opening goal, Elanga remained a disciplined figure throughout the ninety minutes. With much room for improvement, the youngster will be keen on improving his performance over the remainder of the season.

Jadon Sancho (LW) – 5/10: Although having unsettled the visitors’ defence on a handful of occasions, Sancho struggled to find the cutting-edge final ball throughout his time on the pitch. However, with top-four still up for grabs, the youngster will be keen on contributing to the team’s attacking output over the coming weeks.

Cristiano Ronaldo (ST) – 10/10: Having single-handedly guided United to a victory on Saturday, Ronaldo emerges as United’s most impressive player against Norwich. Expected to take his momentum into the game against Liverpool, the Portuguese international will be keen on denting the Reds’ title-hopes next Tuesday.

Cristiano Ronaldo after scoring against Norwich City, Manchester United player ratings, Norwich — Image Obtained Via Manchestereveningnews

Substitutes

Nemanja Matic (CDM) – 7/10: A composed and disciplined Matic saw United instantly improve their defensive solidity and transitions following his introduction. Having stated his decision to leave the club in the summer, the Serbian will be keen on contributing to the team’s prospects over the coming weeks.

Marcus Rashford (RW) – 5/10: An unimpressive cameo saw Rashford fail to capitalize on a vulnerable Norwich defence on Saturday. Having struggled for form throughout the season, the winger will be looking to recuperate and return with a fresh mindset for a new beginning next season.

Juan Mata (CM) – 7/10: Much like Matic, Mata’s composure and technical security ensured United remained composed and disciplined in possession going into the final quarter of the game. Having delivered impactful cameos in recent fixtures, the Spaniard will be looking to gain additional game-time over the coming weeks.

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