Three things Manchester United learned in win over Leicester City
By Kian Long
2. Star duo show positive signs
Most players played pretty well on the night, but to me, two of those stuck out.
One of them was of course the World Cup winner and captain Paul Pogba. Right from the start, he impressed with his luscious range of passing. He was a real positive impact to the United side, and he assured fans when he coolly converted his early penalty.
This is the type of leadership Mourinho wants. A captain who can lead by example, an example which Pogba certainly set last night. There was one moment in particular where he lost possession, but chased back to put in a slide tackle. Mourinho’s cheer was louder than ever.
After his World Cup campaign, in which he won and scored in the final, Pogba is one to watch for this season. If his performance last night was anything to go by, then it would suggest Mourinho has finally unlocked his full potential in buying Fred.
The other player who impressed me was Juan Mata. It seemed like his career was down and out, but with United’s lack of attacking resources, Mata was called upon.
He was one of the most positive and influential men on the pitch, often using his Spanish flair to beat the opposition and drive his team forward.
If these two can carry on from their impressive opening, then it could be a fruitful campaign for both of them. Mata will undoubtedly need to push harder to retain his place in the starting eleven, but there’s no reason why he shouldn’t be able to.