Manchester United produced an excellent performance as they held on to defeat fierce rivals Man City 2-1 in the FA Cup final at Wembley stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Amid all the speculation over the future of manager Erik ten Hag, the players showed they were still behind the Dutchman with an exceptional display that saw academy products Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo find the back of the net. A late effort from Jeremy Doku gave Pep Guardiola’s side faint hope, but United managed to hold for a famous victory.
United adopted a more defensive approach for the final, with Bruno Fernandes deployed as a false nine, and the tactical change worked a treat as they packed the midfield and frustrated the Premier League champions. Raphael Varane shone in central defence in what was his final appearance for the club, while Lisandro Martinez also made a huge contribution to the victory following his recent return from injury.
Every United player can hold their head high after a brilliant team performance which ensured they not only finished the season with a trophy, but qualified for the Europa League in the process.
It is unclear how the FA Cup victory will impact the future of Ten Hag amid reports he would be sacked regardless of the full-time result, but the manner of their performance certainly made a compelling case for him to be given more time.
Here is how we rated the United players:
13. Rasmus Hojlund - 7
Despite the lead, the game was not already won when he came onto the pitch. He pressed well in attack and contributed to some crucial defensive work. Won a good foul late on. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: AFP via Getty Images
14. Victor Lindelof - 6
The Sweden international ran the clock down when he was brought on in added time and helped them see out an impressive win. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: AFP via Getty Images
15. Mason Mount - 6
He added energy to the United midfield at a crucial time as they held on for the win. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images