Man Utd Player Grades: Newcastle

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Post on Dec 31, 2024

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Man Utd Player Grades: Newcastle Domination and Individual Performances

Manchester United's trip to St. James' Park to face Newcastle United ended in a frustrating 2-0 defeat. While the scoreline reflects a clear Newcastle victory, individual performances varied greatly within the United squad. Let's delve into a detailed breakdown of each player's contribution, assigning grades based on their impact on the game.

Goalkeepers:

• Andre Onana (6/10): Onana had little chance with either goal, both being expertly executed finishes. He commanded his area well and made a few important saves, preventing a heavier defeat. While he couldn't prevent the loss, his performance was commendable considering the circumstances.

Defenders:

• Diogo Dalot (5/10): Dalot struggled to contain Newcastle's attacking threat down his flank, particularly Isak's movement. He offered little going forward and his defensive frailties were exposed.
• Raphael Varane (6/10): Varane, as usual, displayed composure and strength in defense. He made crucial interventions, but the overall team performance left him exposed at times. A solid individual showing, let down by the team's overall performance.
• Lisandro Martinez (5/10): Martinez, like Dalot, found himself on the back foot throughout the match. He was outmuscled on occasions and his usual aggressive style wasn't as effective against Newcastle's physicality.
• Luke Shaw (5/10): Shaw offered little going forward and struggled defensively. He lacked the necessary aggression to prevent Newcastle from creating chances on his side.

Midfielders:

• Casemiro (6/10): Casemiro put in his usual tireless shift, winning tackles and providing defensive cover. However, his influence on the game was limited due to United's overall struggles.
• Christian Eriksen (5/10): Eriksen lacked the creativity and penetration to unlock Newcastle's defense. His passing accuracy was below his usual standards, contributing to United's lack of offensive momentum.
• Bruno Fernandes (5/10): Fernandes' frustration was palpable. While he tried to orchestrate attacks, his efforts were largely ineffective, and his passing was often inaccurate. His usual influence was absent.

Forwards:

• Antony (4/10): Antony failed to make an impact. His dribbling was ineffective, and he offered little in terms of creativity or goal threat. A poor performance that needs improvement.
• Marcus Rashford (5/10): Rashford worked hard, but he was isolated upfront and lacked service. He showed glimpses of his pace but couldn't find a way through Newcastle's resolute defense.
• Alejandro Garnacho (6/10): Garnacho provided a spark of energy when he came on as a substitute. He created some chances and showcased his potential. A better showing than his starting counterparts.

Substitutes:

• Mason Mount (N/A): Didn't play long enough to warrant a grade.
• Jadon Sancho (N/A): Didn't play long enough to warrant a grade.
• Scott McTominay (N/A): Didn't play long enough to warrant a grade.

Overall Team Performance:

Manchester United's performance was far from their best. The team looked disjointed, lacking creativity and defensive solidity. The result highlights the need for significant improvement across various areas of the team. The lack of cohesion and clinical finishing proved costly. Newcastle's tactical approach nullified United’s strengths, exposing their weaknesses.

Key Takeaways:

• Defensive frailties: United's defense needs to improve its ability to cope with physical and pacey attacks.
• Lack of creativity: The midfield failed to provide the necessary service to the forwards.
• Finishing woes: The team needs to improve its ability to convert chances into goals.

This game serves as a significant wake-up call for Manchester United. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving future performances and challenging for major honours this season.