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5 Things Learned: Manchester United 4-1 Melbourne Victory - Anthony Martial Scores Again

Cain Smith

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5 Things Learned: Manchester United 4-1 Melbourne Victory - Anthony Martial Scores Again

After going behind in the opening five minutes, Erik ten Hag's Manchester United ended with victory against Melbourne Victory.

The equaliser from Scott McTominay took a wild deflection over the keep, but the second from Anthony Martial was following some wonderful build-up play before the end of the first half.

United's younger side in the second half were also in control of the game and created some good chances before Marcus Rashford added the third.

The fourth and final goal came from an own goal after Tahith Chong forced the issue with a low cross in the last minutes.

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With much to learn still from the team in the Ten Hag era, here are five things that were noticed in the second game of United's pre-season tour.

Bruno showing adaption

Many believed that Bruno Fernandes would struggle to adapt to Ten Hag's style of football after having the game run through him in previous campaigns, but he's shown signs that it might not be that difficult.

Of course, it is only pre-season, but the playmaker has toned down the 'heroball' and looks much more composed in possession.

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In the game, he avoided constantly dropping in and was receiving the ball in better positions. When he was on the ball, he rarely forced the final pass like we've seen too often from him.

It was a more calculated approach, with short and simple passes allowing United to continue their play. But, it wasn't only safe from United's new no.8.

He also played some great passes behind the Melbourne backline, but he played these passes when they were on. That's the improvement we're seeing.

If he's able to continue to show this adaption, Bruno will undoubtedly be a key player under the new manager as time goes on.

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Martial follows on from Liverpool

Anthony Martial continued to show that he's keen for a redemption season under the Dutchman, after his solid showing against Liverpool.

He was, yet again, sharp on the ball, good in link-up and eventually got his goal. He showed good composure in the area to control well and slot the ball into the corner after some good link-up play on the right led to him receiving the ball in the box.

Anthony Martial scores on his return to the Manchester United squad. (Man Utd)
Anthony Martial scores on his return to the Manchester United squad. (Man Utd)
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Increasing confidence will certainly be a plus for the Frenchman after two goals in 90 minutes of football so far. One of the main problems that led to his downfall in the last two years has been a void of confidence in front of goal.

The press on show again, but it needs to be perfected

Yet again, Erik ten Hag's side were looking to squeeze up the pitch and press the opposition when out of possession.

It was successful against Liverpool, who made many mistakes - especially in the first half - because of United's pressure.

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And there was fruition in this fixture too, where they made turnovers happen because of this pressure.

But, as Ten Hag has mentioned, there still needs to be improvements made.

Melbourne's goal in the first half showed that.

After avoiding the initial press, the Aussie's forwards had the space to attack and punished United's back four.

Slowly, those mistakes will be ironed out by Ten Hag.

Zidane Iqbal's talent is so clear

The teenager again showed his talent in his second half appearance in Australia.

A bit of strength and skill was on hand to bypass two players mid-way through the second half, he then put in a dangerous cross into the box towards Marcus Rashford.

After performing well against Liverpool and Melbourne now, Iqbal will be eying a potential push towards the first-team squad under Ten Hag next season.

Credit: Manchester United
Credit: Manchester United

The midfielder is silky and always has a good first and second touch. He looks beyond his years and clearly has potential for big things going forward.

An important goal for Rashford

Rashford was given the captain's armband in the second half as he led the young attack. He was unable to find a goal against Liverpool, but finished well after Eric Bailly found the no.10.

It was a cute finish towards the end of the game, but Rashford also played well otherwise, with some nice passes and movements throughout.

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Again, like Martial, the Englishman has suffered with his confidence in the last year, but with a goal now under his belt, he could start to blossom under Ten Hag.


Featured Image Credit: Ash Donelon/Manchester United

Topics: Erik Ten Hag, Football, Manchester United, Anthony Martial, Bruno Fernandes

Cain Smith
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