Angel di Maria was the man-of-the-match on his Manchester United home debut.
Angel di Maria was impressive on his Manchester United home debut, scoring one and creating another.
There was so much more to his game than that however, with his direct running and speed helping to transform a side which had looked below par all season.
The £60 million signing from Real Madrid was chosen by SkySports co-commentator and former United captain Gary Neville as the man-of-the-match, and he was only too happy to explain why.
He said on commentary: “There’s no doubts, it’s Di Maria. He’s been the man-of-the-match today, there have been some good performances from United but I think he’s changed the game, with his goal his assist, a couple of wonderful passes.
“I don’t think any football team can play without pace nowadays. United have been far too one-paced over the last 12 months, he’s just brought a real change of pace and speed to the attack.”
After his performance yesterday, with Radamel Falcao not even getting started, there is suddenly going to be a fear factor back at Old Trafford for visiting teams.
With the crowd suddenly abuzz, thrilled by the prospect of entertaining football, Di Maria has kickstarted the Louis van Gaal era at United and with West Ham the next visitors in a fortnight, fans will be savouring their tickets like gold dust.
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