Manchester United secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Southampton, building momentum after a series of difficult weeks. The turning point came from Andre Onana’s penalty save, which rejuvenated the squad and allowed them to take full advantage with two quick goals before halftime. Manuel Ugarte made his debut, and Alejandro Garnacho added a late third to round off a successful afternoon. Here are the player ratings from St. Mary’s:
### **Andre Onana – 9**
The undisputed hero of the match. Onana’s penalty save was not only crucial but may well be the catalyst for a turnaround in United’s season. He made key saves and commanded his area confidently throughout the game.
### **Diogo Dalot – 6**
A tough outing for Dalot, who struggled to contain Southampton’s Tyler Dibling in the first half, giving away a penalty. However, his persistence paid off as he provided the assist for Garnacho’s goal late on, slightly redeeming his performance.
### **Matthijs de Ligt – 8**
A solid defensive display, De Ligt bounced back strongly after a disappointing international break. Scoring his first goal for United and commanding the backline, he showed why he is such an important player for Erik ten Hag’s side.
### **Lisandro Martinez – 7.5**
Martinez grew into the game, showing his trademark aggression and calmness on the ball. His accurate passing and defensive awareness helped United maintain control and keep a clean sheet.
### **Noussair Mazraoui – 7**
Mazraoui had some shaky moments early on but recovered well, contributing to United’s build-up play with his composure on the ball. His attacking forays became more prominent in the second half, helping to pin Southampton back.
### **Christian Eriksen – 6.5**
Though not spectacular, Eriksen’s delivery on set pieces was a major asset. He brought much-needed composure in midfield and played a key role in United’s corner routines, which led to their first two goals.
### **Kobbie Mainoo – 5.5**
Still finding his feet at the top level, Mainoo had a difficult game as Southampton pressed him relentlessly. He will need to adapt quickly to cope with the intensity of Premier League opposition, but his potential remains clear.
### **Bruno Fernandes – 7**
Fernandes provided a beautifully weighted cross for De Ligt’s opener and was effective in linking up play. His performance lifted the team’s tempo, but he faded slightly in the second half as the game became more comfortable for United.
### **Amad – 9**
United’s standout player by a mile. Amad was at the heart of most attacking moves, creating spaces and linking up brilliantly with Rashford. His assist for Rashford’s goal was deserved and he looks to be a key figure in the squad going forward.
### **Marcus Rashford – 7.5**
Rashford’s goal just before halftime was vital in putting United in control. His confidence seemed to rise after the goal, and he worked hard throughout, showing glimpses of his best form.
### **Joshua Zirkzee – 6.5**
Zirkzee had a quiet first half, missing a couple of decent chances, but he improved after the break. His hold-up play and link-up with the midfield were much better in the second half, although he’ll want to be more clinical in future games.
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### **Substitutes**
**Harry Maguire – 5.5**
Booked soon after coming on and didn’t have much to do in the game.
**Alejandro Garnacho – 8**
Came on with great energy, scoring United’s third goal to seal the win. His sharpness in front of goal adds another dimension to the attack.
**Manuel Ugarte – 6.5**
A quiet but solid debut. Ugarte showed glimpses of his ball-winning abilities and composure in possession. He looks like a promising addition to the squad.
**Jonny Evans – 6**
Slotted in at left-back without any fuss and helped United see the game out comfortably.
**Casemiro – N/A**
Came on too late to make an impact.
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### **Manager: Erik ten Hag – 8**
Ten Hag’s decision to stick with Rashford and Amad paid off handsomely. The team looked more balanced and confident as they capitalized on key moments in the match. His tactical approach worked well, especially after the turning point of Onana’s penalty save.
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- United will be pleased with this result, and the performance could be the springboard they need to regain consistency.
