Man Utd Player Ratings: PAOK Match, Diallo Shines
Manchester United secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over PAOK in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 16 tie, with Amad Diallo proving to be the standout performer. Let's delve into the individual player ratings from the match:
Amad Diallo: 9/10
Diallo was a whirlwind of pace and trickery throughout the game. He was a constant threat on the right flank, creating numerous chances and scoring the opening goal with a sublime finish. His confidence and directness were infectious, injecting a much-needed dose of energy into the United attack.
Bruno Fernandes: 8/10
Fernandes continued his impressive form, dictating the tempo of the match from midfield. He provided two assists, expertly picking out teammates with pinpoint passes. His tireless work ethic and ability to unlock defenses made him a key player for United.
Marcus Rashford: 7/10
Rashford looked sharp and dangerous, playing with purpose and intensity. He scored the second goal, showcasing his clinical finishing ability. His runs in behind the defense caused problems for the PAOK backline, making him a constant threat throughout the match.
Anthony Martial: 6/10
Martial struggled to make a significant impact, often looking isolated and unable to find his rhythm. However, he did set up the third goal with a clever pass, proving his value even in a relatively quiet performance.
Other Notable Performances:
Luke Shaw: 7/10 - A solid performance from Shaw, who was defensively sound and contributed effectively in attack.
Harry Maguire: 7/10 - Maguire led the backline with his usual composure and authority, thwarting any PAOK attempts to penetrate the United defense.
Scott McTominay: 6/10 - McTominay provided a strong defensive presence in midfield, shielding the backline and breaking up play effectively.
Donny van de Beek: 6/10 - Van de Beek came on as a substitute and offered some fresh impetus to the United attack, showcasing his technical abilities and passing range.
Conclusion
Manchester United's dominant performance against PAOK saw a collective effort, but Amad Diallo undoubtedly stole the show with his exceptional display. His electrifying pace and skillful dribbling proved too much for the Greek side to handle, ultimately earning him the Man of the Match award. This victory sets United up perfectly for the second leg in Greece, where they will be looking to secure a place in the quarter-finals.