A well-rounded Performance saw Manchester United secure consecutive league victories for only the second time this season as the Red Devils defeated a tamed Crystal Palace 1-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday. A solitary strike by Fred from outside the 18-yard-box broke the deadlock in the 77th minute as the home side remained in control throughout the game.

Amidst optimism of the new dawn under Ralf Rangnick, United began the game tenaciously as they remained proactive for most of the ninety minutes. The Red Devils’ refreshing approach produced palpable moments as they kept Palace pinned in their half for most of the first half. United, however, struggled to maintain their intensity and rhythm in the second half as they strived for a goal in the last quarter of the game.

With games coming thick and fast, Rangnick is likely to experiment with his squad going forward. However, with the team adopting a comparatively distinct approach, it remains to be seen if the players can improve their performances over the coming weeks. Let’s take a look at how the players fared against the Eagles.

Starting XI:

David De Gea (GK) – 6/10

With the team producing a much-improved defensive performance, De Gea remained a spectator for most of the game. When called upon, the Spaniard produced routine saves, avoiding any hiccups throughout the ninety minutes. Having kept only his third clean sheet in the Premier League against Palace, De Gea will be hoping to increase the tally over the coming weeks.

Diogo Dalot (RB) – 8/10

Kicking on from his noteworthy display against Arsenal, Dalot may have cemented his spot in the starting line-up for the immediate future. The right-back’s technical ability combined with his positional sense was pivotal to United remaining solid in defence, and adopting a semi-attacking approach against Palace. Expected to remain ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka in contention for the right-back spot, Dalot will be hoping to build upon his consistent performances over the coming fixtures.

Fair play to Diogo Dalot as well, who had a great game.
He isn't the best full-back you'll see but he gives you an idea of how much more threatening a team can look with someone in that position who has a solid base level of technical competence.pic.twitter.com/PYUDDBczde https://t.co/D4G2ywu5Vq

— Rahul (@exceedingxpuns) December 6, 2021

Victor Lindelof (RCB) – 8/10

Arguably, United’s most consistent defender in recent fixtures, Lindelof produced another impressive display against the Eagles. The Swede’s composure in possession and defensive organisation played a vital role in United proactively executing a high-defensive line on Sunday. With Raphael Varane likely to return anytime soon, it remains to be seen if Lindelof secures his place in the line-up over the coming month.

Harry Maguire (LCB) – 7/10

A much-improved performance saw United’s captain emerge from a slump of inexcusable displays in the lead-up to Sunday. Maguire looked assured and composed at the back for, arguably, the first time this season, as he executed his role diligently. Provided he regains his form, Maguire is likely to remain a vital part of Rangnick’s defensive line going forward.

Alex Telles (LB) – 8/10

Having made the most tackles and passes in the United vs Palace game, Telles delivered an excellent performance against Vieira’s men. The left-back provided significant width in United’s attacking setup whilst also providing the requisite defensive cover without possession. Having produced well-rounded displays in recent fixtures, Telles is likely to keep his spot at left-back over the coming weeks.

Scott McTominay (CM) – 6/10

A vital cog in United’s improvement without possession, McTominay played a major role in breaking up play and engaging in tactical fouls against Palace. The Scotsman delivered a much-improved performance, although question marks persist over his ability in possession. Given the lack of pragmatic midfielders in United’s squad, it remains to be seen if McTominay succeeds in improving his game over the coming weeks.

Fred (CM) – 8/10

The match-winning goal combined with an impressive display throughout the game saw Fred have a remarkable outing on Sunday. The Brazilian was amongst United’s most tenacious players on the pitch, displaying a promising glimpse of his potential under the new system. With many expecting Fred to remain a pivotal part of the set-up under Rangnick, the midfielder will be hoping to remain amongst the foremost names on the team sheet going forward.

Bruno Fernandes (RCAM) – 6/10

Although failing to register a goal contribution, Fernandes’ energy provided the key to the team pressuring Palace’s defensive line in the first half. The midfielder attracted opposition players whilst helping the team retain possession in the attacking third. Having delivered a decent performance, the Portuguese midfielder will be looking to improve his impact in the new system over the coming months.

Jadon Sancho (LCAM) – 7/10

Deployed to operate in half-spaces, Sancho lived up to expectations in the first half. The youngster’s intricate passing combined with his ability to dribble past defenders resulted in numerous goal-scoring opportunities. Amongst those expected to flourish under the new system, Sancho is likely to remain a starter in the coming weeks.

Marcus Rashford (LF) – 6/10

A marginally improved performance saw Marcus Rashford stay disciplined without possession throughout the first half. Although finding himself offside many a times or failing to provide the final ball, the forward delivered a relatively decent performance on Sunday. With many concerned about his place in the forward line, Rashford will be keen on silencing his doubters over the coming weeks.

◉ Manchester United high 4222 v. Crystal Palace pic.twitter.com/1AddPeKbOf

— Moussa Behilil (@BehililMoussa) December 6, 2021

Cristiano Ronaldo (RF) – 6/10

Although failed to register his name on the score sheet, Ronaldo silenced his critics with his off-the-ball work rate in the United vs Palace game. The striker found himself on the end of several goal-scoring opportunities in the first half but failed to find the back of the net on Sunday. Expected to significantly increase his goal tally, Ronaldo will be keen on extracting the best out of his opportunities in the coming weeks.

Substitutes:

Mason Greenwood (RCAM) – 7/10

An impressive bit of play saw Greenwood mark his return by producing the assist for Fred’s goal on Sunday. Although the youngster failed to make the starting line-up, he will be hoping to showcase his talent provided he gets an opportunity in the UEFA Champions League tie against Young Boys on Wednesday.

Anthony Elanga (LF) – 6/10

Having registered his first Premier League appearance of the campaign, Elanga will be hoping to gain more first-team minutes going forward. Although the winger had negligible impact on Sunday, he will be keen on challenging for a first-team spot till the end of the campaign.

Read More:

• ESR On Target Again, Auba Goal Drought Continues and More | How Arsenal Players Fared Against Manchester United
• Three Urgent Contract Decisions Rangnick has to Take Immediately After Becoming Manager at United
• Three Major Issues Rangnick Needs to Address at Manchester United Immediately

Donny van de Beek (LCAM) – 7/10

Although many expected the Dutchman to make the starting line-up, Van de Beek, once again, found himself starting on the bench against Palace. Brought on for the final ten minutes, Van de Beek produced a couple of excellent tackles whilst drawing a foul in the attacking third. Amongst the squad players expected to challenge for a first-team spot, it remains to be seen if the Dutchman is granted a string of opportunities over the coming month.

What are your thoughts on the player ratings given for the Manchester United vs Crystal Palace game? Do let us know your opinion in the comment section below.

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The post Fred Shines Brightest, Maguire Improves, Rangnick Approach Visible – Here’s How United Players Fared Against Palace appeared first on Arsedevils.