Manchester United 3 Barcelona 1 - Player Ratings

Wayne Rooney scores the opening goal for United in their pre-season friendly against Barcelona

Manchester United’s successful pre-season run continued with victory over Champions League winners Barcelona. Wayne Rooney, Jesse Lingard, and Adnan Januzaj scored for United while Rafinha scored the lone goal for the Spanish champions.

Here’s a look at how the Reds fared.

David De Gea – 7/10

The United goalkeeper was playing his first match of the pre-season and was called into action early on making a vital save. He was much better with his distribution than he had been towards the end of last season.

Matteo Darmian – 8/10

It’s still early days, but the Italian does look the real deal and seems destined to be first choice right back this season. Linked up well with Juan Mata as well.

Phil Jones – 6/10

Still makes me nervous at times and on more than one occasion looked- well, a bit Phil Jones-ish- but luckily for the Reds managed not to do too much wrong.

Daley Blind – 7/10

Almost gave away a penalty but for once Luis Suarez didn’t make a meal of it. Looking much better in defense than he has for United when he’s been used in midfield. He could very well be the leader at the back Van Gaal is desperate for.

Luke Shaw – 7/10

The fitness coach he took abroad with him certainly seems to have working wonders for the Englishman. He caused Barcelona all sorts of problems and looked fairly confident at the back.

Morgan Schneiderlin – 6/10

Put in a solid display yet again. He’s never shy of putting a foot in when required while also providing the legs that Michael Carrick doesn’t have.

Michael Carrick – 7/10

Typically assured display from United’s often ‘unsung hero’.

Ashley Young – 7/10

Set up Rooney’s goal with a perfect corner and made some decent runs down the left.

Memphis Depay – 6/10

Lively and skillful although Barcelona did a fairly good job of keeping his danger to a minimum.

Juan Mata – 7/10

Neat and tidy as usual with some great touches, but seemed to struggle with decision-making at times

Wayne Rooney – 7/10

Still has the occasional poor touch, but he had a good game on the whole, capping it off with one of the easiest headers he’ll ever score.

Subs-

Considering the entire team was subbed, honorable mentions go to Jesse Lingard and Adnan Januzaj who both got on the scoresheet, as well as Tyler Blackett for an impressive performance.

Jesse Lingard – 8/10

The star of the second half with a goal and an assist for Januzaj’s goal.

Adnan Januzaj – 7/10

The Belgian impressed in his thirty-minute cameo playing in a central role and scored a goal as well.

Tyler Blackett – 7/10

Was solid at the back and provided a perfect assist for Lingard’s goal.