BREAKING NEWS: “He may not have scored today, but for me, he was the best player on the field… Every goal we scored involved him,” said Manchester United’s interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy, highlighting ONE player as the standout performer against Leicester City, despite not finding the net. HE’S MY MAN OF THE MATCH TOO! 🥰

Manchester United advanced to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals for the sixth time in nine years after defeating Leicester City 5-2, in what was Ruud van Nistelrooy’s first match as interim manager. The game saw an action-packed first half, with six goals scored between the two teams, as United quickly built momentum.

Casemiro led the charge for United with a brace, setting the tone for a dominant display. His first goal and United’s opener was soon followed by an impressive second from Alejandro Garnacho within the first 30 minutes. Leicester responded with a goal from Bilal El Khannous, narrowing the scoreline, but United’s attack kept pressing. Bruno Fernandes finally broke his scoring drought this season, contributing two goals, one before and one after a second goal by Leicester’s Conor Coady. This high-paced, offensive showing showcased United’s potential under their new manager.

Altay Bayindir, United’s goalkeeper, received a rating of 6/10. He made a crucial stop later in the game but was expected to perform better on Leicester’s first goal. Right-back Diogo Dalot was similarly rated, delivering an accurate cross for Garnacho’s goal but still recovering from a missed opportunity in a recent match.

Center-back Matthijs de Ligt’s aggressive defending helped United gain early control, but he struggled later when Leicester scored their second, earning him a 6/10. His partner Victor Lindelof, making only his second start of the season, was rated 5/10 after failing to block the cross that led to Leicester’s first goal. Left-back Lisandro Martinez, though steady, was given a 6/10 for a “functional” performance in an unfamiliar role.

Bruno Fernandes, the captain, shone with two goals, securing an 8/10 for his skill and composure in finishing both chances. Alejandro Garnacho also impressed, scoring United’s second goal and assisting Casemiro’s opener, earning him an 8/10. Joshua Zirkzee, however, struggled to find his rhythm and rated only 5/10, as he remained on the outskirts of the attacking action with few chances to make a significant impact.

Among the substitutes, Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, Jonny Evans, and Rasmus Hojlund were each given a 6/10 for their efforts after entering late in the second half. Their appearances, though short, helped maintain United’s lead.

United’s 5-2 victory not only advances them to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals but also signals a potential revival under van Nistelrooy’s temporary leadership. The match showcased a rejuvenated attack, with players like Fernandes and Garnacho leading the charge, supported by a solid team effort across the field.