93% passing, 100% duels won: £42m star was United’s best player after Mainoo vs FCSB, looks transformed – opinion | OneFootball

Manchester United guaranteed their place in the last 16 of the Europa League following a 2-0 win over FCSB on the road on Thursday night.

Manager Ruben Amorim decided to make five changes to the starting XI. United had a mixed opening half but stepped up after the break.

The introductions of Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo brought more attacking impetus.

Diogo Dalot broke the deadlock at the hour mark. Kobbie Mainoo bagged the second goal in the 68th minute to put the game beyond FSCB’s sight.

Mainoo was the man of the match for his goal and a sublime assist for Dalot, but Lisandro Martinez was equally impressive in the heart of the defence.

The Argentine had a slow start to the campaign. There were suggestions that he should be dropped from the starting line-up due to his inconsistency.

However, the centre-back has started to find form. He was brilliant yesterday and won 100 per cent of his ground and aerial duels against FCSB away.

The 27-year-old had 102 touches overall with a passing accuracy of 93 percent. He also made three clearances and created one big scoring chance.

Martinez has started to adapt to manager Ruben Amorim’s formation. He spent most of the time in the opposite half and looked confident in possession.

He received an 8/10 rating for his performance from Manchester Evening News.

The £42 million-rated star has been transformed under Amorim and appears comfortable playing in a back three where he has the freedom to express himself.

Martinez has also scored a couple of crucial goals for United this month. Hopefully, he can continue the sparkling form as United aim to climb the league table.

Stats from Sofascore.com & Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .