Man Utd player ratings: Harry Maguire struggles but Jadon Sancho offers exciting Hojlund alternative in new role
HARRY MAGUIRE proved to be the pantomime villain for much of the afternoon before throwing in a redemption arc as he turned provider for last-gasp hero Facundo Pellistri.
Maguire was booed by fans and berated by team-mates after his first-half error gifted Nico Williams the opener for Athletic Bilbao.
However, with United putting in a flat performance for the remaining duration of the game, it was Maguire who popped up in the final moments to help United grab a late equaliser.
A punt upfield from Aaron Wan-Bissaka found its way to the England defender – who had been snubbed for the captain’s armband in favour of Tom Heaton – before he knocked it down to Pellistri.
The United youngster popped up at the right moment to snatch a draw from the jaws of defeat.
Few stars have given Erik ten Hag food for thought ahead of the Premier League opener against Wolves, though the minutes in the tank were the most important thing today.
Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Red Devils.
Tom Heaton – 6
Did all he could for Bilbao’s opener. Long passing could have been better but generally solid and still looks a steady No2.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 6
Solid if not unspectacular display. Saw a brilliant cross to Hannibal squandered in the second half. Has work to do if he is to dislodge Diogo Dalot as United’s No1 RB.
Harry Maguire – 3
Huge first-half error saw United concede early on. Booed by fans and laid into by Dan Gore. Provided an assist for
Victor Lindelof – 6
Went about his job quietly and was not challenged much down his side.
Alvaro Fernandez – 6
Appeared to give away a penalty with a sloppy foul before it was revealed to be outside the area instead. Made a number of important interceptions across a generally impressive display at LB.
Dan Gore – 6
Comfortable enough in midfield to not look out of place but unable to provide a spark to give United lift. Berated Maguire when he failed to provide a passing option.
Christian Eriksen – 5
Quiet afternoon trying to dictate play from deep. United lacked thrust from midfield.
Omari Forson – 6
Like Gore this was not the height of his pre-season. Worked hard but unable to get into the game the way he would have liked.
Donny Van de Beek – 6
Guilty of overplaying when a one-two with Sancho presented itself. Combined well with team-mates and showed why he can be a useful piece in the squad over the coming season. Subbed at half-time.
Facundo Pellistri – 6
Generally quiet afternoon before popping up with a last-gasp equaliser. Definitely has the ability to provide a good option for United this season.
Jadon Sancho – 7
Had fans declaring: “he’s cooking” online with a cheeky nutmeg and dribble early on. Appeared very comfortable combining with team-mates in his role down the middle.
Subs
Hannibal Mejbri (On at half-time) – 6
Forced a red card after being pulled back following his interception high up the pitch. Shot a volley over the bar despite being wide open in the 73rd minute.
Jonny Evans (On 64mins) – 5
Came on for Fernandez and instantly involved in the action with a rising header. Caught out at one point by a ball in behind but fortunately nothing came of it.
Joe Hugill (On 64mins) – 5
Didn’t do much after coming on.