In an exciting start to their pre-season tour, Erik ten Hag and Manchester United secured a convincing 2-0 victory over their Premier League rivals, Arsenal. United played out an exciting opener against Liverpool in front of a record attendance of 82,262 people at the Metlifepark Stadium.
There was plenty of passion in an enthralling opening period as the two sides fought for all. Fernandes opened up our account with a right boot heave which took Arsenal keeper Aaron Ramsdale by surprise. The goal came at the half-hour mark and gave United a well-deserved lead.
Sancho put United ahead just seven minutes later after another impressive display of finishing ability.The England striker showed off both his pace and precision to turn an error from Arsenal defender Gabriel into the easy goal.
There was plenty of goal-writing and free-kicking in the first half-hour before many changes to either side led to an absence of excitement following45 minutes.Manchester United’s new Cameroon goalkeeper, Andre Onana, did not get the opportunity to impress however as he arrived with the rest of the team in America.
Instead, back-up goalie Tom Heaton started between the posts, with Fernandes taking on the captain’s armband in place of defender Harry Maguire. His debut was anything but dull as Heaton produced an excellent pair of saves to stop Gabriel Martinelli scoring and leave Arsenal reeling.
For Arsenal, their USA tour began on a positive note with a 5-0 victory over the MLS All Stars. But could not reproduce this form against Manchester United and lacked inspiration in a game which should have been easy.
