Villarreal crashed to a 2-0 defeat at home to Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League earlier tonight.
Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho in the second half sealed a morale-boosting away win for the Red Devils.
Here at anytime football, we look at the three major talking points from tonight’s contest.
Van de Beek failed to impress on his start
The Dutch international midfielder was handed a start by Michael Carrick but he failed to grab the opportunity tonight.
The former Ajax midfielder has struggled to hold down a place in the starting lineup since joining Manchester United but the departure of Ole Gunnar Solsjkaer handed him a lifeline.
It will be interesting to see if he can make the most of his opportunities in the coming weeks.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s remarkable start continues
The 36-year-old joined Manchester United at the start of the season and he has been outstanding for the Red Devils.
The Portuguese international was a free transfer and he has been the most efficient player in the squad over the last few months.
Ronaldo managed to score the opening goal of the game in the 78th minute and he harassed the Spanish outfit with his movement and intelligence across the pitch.
The resurgence of Jadon Sancho
The England international winger barely played under Solskjaer but he was given a start by Michael Carrick tonight and he managed to impress thoroughly.
The former Borussia Dortmund winger not only created chances for his teammates with his passing and flair he also chipped in with the vital second goal of the game on the 90th minute.
Tonight’s performance will certainly boost his confidence and it remains to be seen if he can cement his place in the starting lineup now.
