Defence
Luke Shaw – 7
The England international was solid down the left-hand side. Defensively, he kept Juan Cuadrado quiet all game and was also effective at bombing forward and linking up with Anthony Martial in attack. All Shaw needs to do now is add more assists to his game and he’ll no doubt be among the best left-backs in Europe.
Victor Lindelof – 8
At the end of last season, I thought Lindelof was a flop. However, over the last few games, the Swede has managed to prove me wrong and has revitalised his United career. Although he was outmuscled by Ronaldo for his goal, Lindelof was exceptional for most of the game by making crucial blocks and tackles, and he continued to display his great ball playing ability form the back.
Chris Smalling – 7
Although not as great as Lindelof, Smalling was nevertheless a rock at the back for Manchester United. He seemed to win everything that came into his box and kept it simple when playing out from the back. Sorry, Eric Bailly, but your crazy antics mean you likely won’t be returning to the starting XI any time soon…
Ashley Young – 8
Even though he was playing at right-back, Young was arguably our best attacking player. He wasn’t afraid to bomb forward against top opposition – showing just how confident the ex-winger has become in his new position. Although he didn’t get the assist, his delivery from the free-kick led to the winner, showing why it’s so important that United have a great crosser in the starting XI (we’re looking at you, Antonio Valencia).