United kicked off the season with a UEFA Super Cup game against Real Madrid in hot and humid condition in Macedonia. It turned out to be both a hot weather and a hot result. Here are five (5) things #ManUtdNaijaFM learnt.
1. A SHOCKING OMISSION
Jose "Uchenna" Mourinho started the game with all 3 new signings in Lukaku, Lindelof and Matic. However the 'Calm one' omitted United's best player in the last match against Madrid- Anthony "Ikechukwu" Martial. He opted to play Lingard, probably to support Darmian against Bale.
The only explanation for me, is that Carvajal prayed hard, and his prayers were answered as Martial made him sweat in the last game.
2. ENOUGH OF THE "LOB THE BALL TO FELA"
Even without Fellaini on the pitch, the "lob the ball to the box" tactic was still on display from United. This made us struggle against a team that put the ball on the ground and tried to keep possession.
With Matic, Herrera and Pogba, United have enough quality to keep the ball. Enough is Enough. "Lob the ball" tactic should be reserved for plan D or Z!!.
3. LVG'S SMALLING WAS ON DUTY.
With "Olusegun" Bailly and "Osas" Jones out, Chris "Okonta" Smalling was handed a starting berth. He started off pretty badly, with his usual 'Shaky-shaky daddy' moves. Suprisingly, he later gave us glimpses of the beast we saw under "Oga Philosophy", Van Gaal. He was bold and brave, making interceptions and going for the tackles in the 2nd half, covering up for the less impressive Lindelof who clearly needs time to blend in at United.
4. NEW SIGNINGS
A Matic Shot, a rebound and a Romelu "Timaya" Lukaku goal, in a 'big game' to Silence 'bad-bele' people!! That was the lifeline that United's new signings gave the team today....Sadly, it didn't count at the end.
However, Nemanja "Agu" Matic was brilliant, winning 100% tackles, breaking play, passing neatly and giving the assist.
Lukaku also launched his United competitive debut with a well taken goal.... (United fans would have 'eaten him raw' if he hadn't scored, after that 1st miss).
Lindelof on the other hand needs to buckle up fast. If Smalling continues this way, he may become 4th choice.
5. DAVID "OSINACHI" DE GEA MAY GET AN SMS FROM PEREZ
The Spaniard shot stopper was at his best again tonight, against his regular "toasters". He kept the scoreline respectable for United as he made crucial saves to in front of the jealous Madrid President and fans.
The "toasting" may resume again, so let's get ready for another round of "De Gea to Madrid" rumours.
IN THE END, United lost to Madrid when it mattered most.(after winning them in pre-season).
Positive however is that the new signing Nemanja "Agu" Matic impressed and new "Striker-in-chief" Romelu "Timaya" Lukaku, scored a debut goal.
Let the EPL begin!! UP NEXT, West Ham, SAME TIME, SAME STATION, ON SUNDAY......Stay tuned to #ManUtdNaijaFM