Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said the performance against Leeds in a 5-1 thrashing at Old Trafford to open the new season is ‘the way I want to see my team play’.
United started with attacking intent, always looking to play the ball forward and make incisive runs, and were rewarded with a hat-trick from Bruno Fernandes and four assists from Paul Pogba. Mason Greenwood and Fred also got on the score-sheet in the statement victory.
“This is the way I want to see my team play,” a proud Solskjaer told BT Sport.
“It’s not just because it’s Leeds. I want to see them running, going forward, taking risks and we look fit, to be fair, and some of these players haven’t played more than 45 minutes [in pre-season].”
Fans can look forward to United getting even better in the weeks to come, not least because new arrivals Jadon Sancho will become more involved. Sancho made his debut off the bench, while Varane was presented to the Old Trafford crowd prior to kick-off.
“There are eight or nine players not here today and you’ve got a bench with quality,” Solskjaer said. “Of course, we’ve done well in the summer window. Raphael came in today as well, which I think gave the crowd and the players a boost, so you’re excited.
“Depth in quality and having players to come on. Raphael, with his experience, he’s won the Champions League a few times and the World Cup. He’s got pace and stature. I’ve got two very good centre-backs here today. Victor [Lindelof] has had so much criticism, but for us is so important.”
Discussing Pogba’s outstanding performance, Solskjaer explained that it was important for the Frenchman to feel the confidence of the coaching staff.
“I’ve had a great relationship with Paul all the time since he was a kid and today was about going out there and enjoying yourself,” the boss said.
“He had 45 minutes against Everton [in a friendly] which were not his best, but today we just gave him the freedom of roaming wherever you want to go and get on the ball.
“All the best players would want to feel our trust and confidence in them. Paul is one of those who can create moments out of nothing, he’s so strong and I was impressed by his fitness.”
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Source : 90min