Better than Cunha & Fernandes: 9/10 star is now Man Utd's best player

How Man Utd secured a memorable win over Roma

Given the recent run without a triumph, confidence within the United fanbase was undoubtedly low prior to kick-off - and it wouldn’t take long before the mood worsened once again.

Diogo Dalot found himself caught out of position at the back, which allowed Matias Soule to have the freedom of Manchester before slotting past Senne Lammens.

Things would go from bad to worse for Carrick’s men just seven minutes later, as Ayden Heaven was penalised for handling the ball - which saw Donyell Malen slot home from the penalty spot.

However, the manager’s team talk clearly inspired the players for the second half, with the supporters treated to a memorable comeback in the second half.

Bruno Fernandes’ penalty, at the second attempt, and a double from Matheus Cunha secured a second European win of the campaign for the Red Devils.

The latter would be sent off for a second bookable offence in stoppage time, but no doubt won’t take away from his phenomenal efforts during the win at Old Trafford.

How Bruno & Cunha starred for United against Roma

Captain Fernandes has certainly endured a tricky spell as of late, and United’s struggles have undoubtedly coincided with his own lack of impact in attacking areas.

His goal against the Italian outfit last night was his first goal contribution in nine matches - a run which dates back to the win over Sabah FK in week one of the Champions League.

The 32-year-old also produced some impressive figures alongside his penalty, with the Portuguese international creating the most chances of any player on the pitch (5).

However, the vast majority of the praise from the supporters will be directed towards Cunha, and rightly so given his late double against Gian Piero Gasperini’s men.

Alongside his delightful double, the Brazilian also won the penalty for Bruno and often caused constant trouble to the opposition’s backline at Old Trafford.

His tally of four successful dribbles was the highest of any player in Carrick’s squad, with the 27-year-old offering the biggest attacking threat during the triumph.

Why 9/10 star is now Man Utd’s best player

Given their efforts during the second half, there’s no denying that Cunha and Bruno will receive the majority of the praise from the United faithful in the days ahead.

However, not all of the contributions from other members of the starting eleven were as evident, with some of the star performers going somewhat under the radar.

Kobbie Mainoo’s efforts certainly fall into such a category, with the Englishman once again producing a performance to remember during last night’s victory.

The 21-year-old was making his first start in five matches after his recent injury setback, and he showcased exactly what Carrick’s side have been lacking in recent weeks.

He offered a calm and composed presence with the ball at his feet during the 3-2 triumph, as he registered the most touches of any player from either side (97).

As a result, Mainoo was able to complete 84% of the passes he attempted, with the midfielder making 15 passes into the final third - a figure higher than both Bruno and Cunha.

Without the ball, the Englishman was also just as impressive, subsequently winning three tackles and making a staggering 12 ball recoveries - the most of any Red Devils player.

As a result of his dominant nature without the ball, the youngster managed to come out on top in 70% of his ground duels and was only dribbled past on one occasion.

After such a showing, he was handed an impressive 9/10 match rating and has undoubtedly cemented his place as Carrick’s most influential player at present.

The immediate upturn in results upon his return to action is no coincidence, with Mainoo a player who can have a major impact on proceedings at both ends of the pitch.

Bruno and Cunha will certainly be touted as the heroes, but the academy graduate’s efforts were vital for the Red Devils in their latest European victory.