Manchester United flattered to deceive in the first half of their opening pre-season fixture against Leeds United on Saturday afternoon. The bitter rivals, who will meet again in the Premier League this season after Leeds’ promotion, clashed at the Strawberry Arena in Stockholm.
It offered the first opportunity to see what Ruben Amorim had been working on across the first two weeks of pre-season. But sparks did not fly as United and Leeds entered the break having played out an uninspiring 0-0 stalemate.
Express Sport runs through the United player ratings, including those of debuting duo Diego Leon and Matheus Cunha.
Man Utd first-half player ratings vs Leeds
Altay Bayindir – 5
Had very little to do as both attacks seldom threatened the goal. Dodgy distribution, a trend that has continued from last term.
Noussair Mazraoui – 7
Looks likely to spend most of his minutes at right centre-back this season, with Amad and Diogo Dalot options on the wing. Defensively solid but slightly wasteful on the ball.
Matthijs de Ligt – 7
Organised the back three to a clean sheet. Kept things ticking with accurate passing.
Luke Shaw – 6
Another full-back set for a more prominent role in the back three rather than out wide this season. Offered Leon plenty of support.
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Amad – 7
United’s first-choice right wing-back? Lively showing, drawing more fouls and winning more duels than any other player on the pitch.
Casemiro – 3
Looks in good shape, but did not look up to speed out there. Committed three fouls, was dribbled past twice and lost all five of his duels. Produced a comically bad cross with five minutes to play.
Bruno Fernandes – 6
Started as part of the midfield two, indicating his permanent role after an attack-focused summer recruitment drive. Characteristically creative, completing four passes into the final third and crafting three chances.
Diego Leon – 6
Showcased impressive tenacity and never shied away from entering attacking positions to support his team-mates. Looks built for English football at 18.
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Toby Collyer – 5
Clearly a prop as Amorim waits for Bryan Mbeumo’s arrival. Started as the right-sided No. 10 before switching to right wing-back when Amad moved further forward with 10 minutes left. Could do with a loan.
Matheus Cunha – 7
Promising early signs from United’s new £62.5million man. Caused Leeds problems on the ball, drawing multiple fouls through his rapid bursts of acceleration. Looked certain to score before his attacking partner had other ideas.
Chido Obi – 4
An opportunity to stake a claim for a starting role, but barely had a sniff. Snatched at a shot that had Cunha’s name all over it on 42 minutes, firing wide with his weaker foot. The Brazilian was not happy.
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