Manchester United secured a 2-0 victory over ten-man Tottenham Hotspur, extending their perfect record to four wins under interim manager Michael Carrick. Bruno Fernandes shone brightly, earning high praise from former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves, who described him as the team’s ‘best player by a country mile.’
Match Summary
The game at Old Trafford turned in United’s favor early when Tottenham’s Cristian Romero received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Casemiro in the 29th minute. The hosts capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Bryan Mbeumo breaking the deadlock in the 38th minute via a precise first-time strike past Guglielmo Vicario.
Fernandes sealed the win in the 81st minute with a clever shinned finish, reaching 200 goal involvements in just 314 Premier League appearances for United. This milestone makes him the second-fastest player to achieve it, behind only Wayne Rooney.
The result positions United three points ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea in the Premier League standings.
Hargreaves’ Glowing Assessment
Speaking in the TNT Sports studio, Hargreaves lavished praise on Fernandes. “Let’s be honest, 200 goal involvements is ridiculous. They’re Playstation numbers,” he stated.
He highlighted the midfielder’s impactful style: “He plays with risk but it’s risk that the team benefits from.” Hargreaves also commended the midfield trio of Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Casemiro as the standout performers.
“Those three were probably the three best players in the game. Under Ruben Amorim, that midfield was a weakness, but now it’s really good. Obviously Bruno is the best player by a country mile, and they look so much stronger,” Hargreaves added.
Tactical Shift and Key Moments
Hargreaves noted the match felt evenly poised at 50-50 in possession and shots until Romero’s dismissal shifted momentum. “That red card changed the game, but Bruno and Casemiro decided to run it and took over,” he said.
United displayed a more controlled approach compared to their counter-attacking displays against Manchester City and Arsenal. “They defended really well, controlled the midfield, passed beautifully, and delivered in decisive moments,” Hargreaves observed.
He marveled at Fernandes’ second goal: “The improvisation from Bruno… do you know how hard that is to shin-finish with the outside of your leg? Not many players could score that and make it look comfortable.”
Mbeumo Draws Salah Comparison
Hargreaves singled out Mbeumo, United’s £71million summer signing, for his composure. “I like that he doesn’t overly celebrate when he scores. It looks like he believes he should do it all the time.”
“Mbeumo has just got it. He’s a great finisher and reminds me of Mohamed Salah. He has a clear picture, doesn’t get too up or too down—that’s a brilliant attitude for a big club,” Hargreaves concluded.
