Nemanja Matic accidentally kicks ball at female fan
Nemanja Matic
Manchester United’s new signing made his debut in Dublin and immediately looked at home with his new team-mates.
Starting in central midfield alongside Paul Pogba, the former Chelsea midfield was quiet but assured.
His first game was slighted marred when he accidentally kicked the ball into the face of a supporter in the crowd.
Rapid counter attack
When Sampdoria won an indirect free-kick in United’s box, it seemed unlikely the Premier League side would be the team to open the scoring in this pre-season friendly at that moment.
But after blocking the free-kick, United bombed forward like the Red Arrows.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan then produced an excellent ball to the onrushing Matteo Darmian and the Italian delivered an inch perfect cross to the back post which the Armenian headed in to complete a superb one-two.
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Nemanja Matic looked comfortable in a United shirt
Squad depth
Although Jose Mourinho would like to make more signings in the transfer window, he has an abundance of options at his disposal.
The United boss could name two teams complete with internationals and tons of experience.
United probably rival neighbours City in having the strongest squad in the Premier League.
New formation
Mourinho is well known for his willingness to alter his team to stop opponents and tonight he tried a 3-5-2 formation.
Antonio Valencia and Matteo Darmian played the role of full backs with Victor Lindelof, Chris Smalling and Daley Blind in the back three.
The trio defended well for the most part but Smalling will be unhappy with how he dealt with Sampdoria’s goal.
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