United Beyond Manchester

After a challenging start to the season, several Manchester United players, including Andre Onana, Matthijs De Ligt, and Marcus Rashford, have faced significant criticism for their performances. However, standout performances from all three could be the catalyst Manchester United needs to turn their season around.

Southampton made four errors leading to goals in the first three matches of the season. Yet, after employing a high press prior to the international break, Erik Ten Hag opted to sit back and allow Russell Martin’s men to possess the ball. This tactical decision gave Southampton the license to create early, with 18-year-old Tyler Dibling forcing Andre Onana into action in his first start.

The home side continued to dominate, and a shocking tackle from Diogo Dalot provided the Saints with a spot kick. The penalty provided a chance for the Saints to take a deserved lead, but Andre Onana stepped up and saved Cameron Archer’s penalty and follow-up header.

The penalty save ignited the Reds. Just two minutes after Andre Onana saved his first Premier League penalty, Matthijs De Ligt delivered a controlled header into the far corner, putting United in the lead. Despite a tough week with the Netherlands, the Dutch center-back returned to club football with determination. His first-half performance not only featured a crucial goal but also included several key clearances and tackles in the United box.

Marcus Rashford ended his 12-match goal drought six minutes later to double Manchester United’s lead. The English winger received the ball outside the box from Amad and curled a precision effort into the far corner for a much-needed goal.

After the half, Manchester United used the two-goal advantage to control the game. Multiple chances fell United’s way early, though none found the back of Aaron Ramsdale’s net.

The control that Ten Hag’s men found in the second half allowed the manager to give Manuel Ugarte a comfortable debut. The Uruguayan came on in the 73rd minute alongside Alejandro Garnacho and Harry Maguire for the final 20 minutes.

Southampton went down to ten men in the 80th minute after Jack Stephens flew in with a high boot on Garnacho.

Sixteen minutes later, the Argentine winger sealed the victory with a finish, making it 3-0 just as the game ended. Diogo Dalot cut the ball back, and Garnacho clinically finished into the top corner.

While the performance left much to be desired at times, the result was exactly what United needed. Contributions from Andre Onana, Marcus Rashford, and Matthijs De Ligt will encourage fans and players alike that this team is not done yet.

One area that must be improved is the start. It took a penalty save from Onana for Manchester United to begin threatening the Southampton backline. United’s next two league opponents, Crystal Palace and Tottenham, have the players to punish a lethargic start.

Manchester United face Barnsley in the League Cup on Tuesday.