Manchester United booked their place in the next round of the Europa League after claiming a 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad at Old Trafford last night.
A Bruno Fernandes hat-trick and a late strike from Diogo Dalot secured a 5-2 aggregate win for Ruben Amorim’s side, edging the side one step closer to his first trophy as Red Devils boss.
The triumph sets up a quarter-final clash with Ligue 1 outfit Lyon, needing to replicate such a display to push them into the semi-final stage and end a dismal season on a high.
Amorim will be delighted with such a display, scoring four for the second time during his tenure, with every player having a crucial role to play in the convincing win.
One player in particular starred throughout, stepping up and taking responsibility for the club’s success – something which he’s done so often throughout 2024/25.
Bruno Fernandes’ magical display against Real Sociedad
Midfielder Fernandes took his tally to 13 goals this campaign with his three-goal haul last night, providing the difference between qualification and an early exit.
The 30-year-old featured for the entirety of the contest, notching a tally of 87 touches and creating four chances – the most of any player on either side.
He also won two tackles whilst coming out on top in six of the eight duels he contested – showcasing his talents at both ends of the pitch and demonstrating his importance to Amorim’s side.
His goals took him to 24 goals and 17 assists in his Europa League career, the most of any player in the history of the competition, overtaking former Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the process.
However, another player impressed during the win, arguably being just as important as the Portuguese international in United’s current first-team squad.
The Man United player who is as important as Bruno
Over the years, the Red Devils have often struggled to produce the levels expected from the supporters after the heights achieved during the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
Amorim is the manager tasked with restoring their former glory, needing time to overhaul the squad if he is to make the impact he wants during his time at the helm.
He’s already started part of the rebuild, offloading numerous players in January, and even making a key addition in the form of £30m addition Patrick Dorgu.
The Dane has taken time to settle into life at Old Trafford, with his showing last night arguably one of his best, showing qualities that could allow him to fill the void at left-back – a position that has been a huge problem over the years.
Dorgu featured for the whole clash, registering 66 touches and winning six fouls – the most of any player in the encounter, highlighting how dangerous he was in possession.
He also completed 100% of his dribbles, registering five efforts on goal and having a real positive impact within the final third despite his defensive role.
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Dorgu’s stats for United against Real Sociedad |
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|---|---|
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Statistics |
Tally |
|
Minutes played |
90 |
|
Touches |
66 |
|
Duels won |
11 |
|
Dribbles completed |
1/1 (100%) |
|
Shots taken |
5 |
|
Recoveries made |
4 |
|
Tackles won |
2 |
|
Stats via FotMob |
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However, the 20-year-old also impressed defensively, making four recoveries and winning two tackles, helping the side advance to the next round.
As a result of his showing, the full-back was handed a 7/10 match rating by Express journalist Charlie Gordon, highlighting how impressive he was during the encounter.
Given his tender age, the 20-year-old has a huge future at the club, potentially able to secure his place in the starting eleven for many years and solving a key issue in the process.
He was Amorim’s first major signing since taking over, with the fanbase having reason to be excited if any future additions turn out as successful as Dorgu.