Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick used the match against Young Boys to take a look at his squad players.
The game ended in a 1-1 draw and despite an eighth minute opener, it did not turn into the carnival atmosphere supporters had hoped for.
United’s fringe players largely failed to impress, and only played well in flashes. Amad had a couple of nice moments only for his final ball to let him down. Anthony Elanga got into good positions and could not finish.
Both of those players can be afforded a little leniency. This is all part of the learning process. For others, it was more of a wasted opportunity.
It was a chance for the fringe starters to break into Ralf Rangnick’s starting XI for the weekend. With plenty of games coming up, they could have made a real case for themselves.
Here is a look at four players who could regret not being able to take their chances…
Juan Mata
Not too much is expected from Juan Mata at this stage of his career and this was just his second appearance of the season. It was a chance for him to change his fortunes.
Unfortunately Mata did not do too much to suggest that he will feature in the Premier League any time soon.
He blazed a free-kick over the bar and then wasted United’s biggest opportunity in the first half after Greenwood’s goal when his shot was saved.It is very possible this is Mata’s final Champions League game in a Manchester United shirt.
Donny van de Beek
Donny van de Beek gave the ball away for the Young Boys equaliser with a sloppy pass on the edge of his own box.
Interim boss Ralf Rangnick said after the game he had warned the players about Young Boys’ pressing and the dangers they presented, expressing frustration that United had given a goal away in this manner.
Van de Beek failed to do anything to suggest he should displace either Fred or Scott McTominay at the weekend.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Arguably United’s worst performer on the night was Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who was also involved in the poor defending leading to the equaliser
Wan-Bissaka’s performance included mistimed tackles, and getting dragged out of position to open up spaces on his side of the defence.
With the ball he lacked quality and failed to complete a cross. The biggest winner from the game was probably Diogo Dalot, whose place at the weekend looks secure.
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