Manchester United got their pre-season off to a disappointing start, failing to find the back of the net in a goalless draw with Leeds United on Saturday afternoon.
With manager Ruben Amorim deciding to field two entirely different teams each half, it was clear that some Man United players were far better prepared for the new season than others.
The first half team showed much more composure on the ball than the second, proving far stronger on the attack and remaining solid at the back.
Perhaps one of the biggest gulfs in class came on the attack, with Chido Obi proving to be the most capable striker that Amorim currently has at his disposal.
The teenager got an impressive five shots on goal, with one being on target, two off target, and two getting blocked.
Perhaps his most impressive moment came on the stroke of half-time, when he received the ball with his back to goal. The forward promptly swivelled and unleashed a shot that drifted just wide of the left post.
Aside from his opportunism in front of the goal, there wasn’t too much to write home about.
Obi only managed to make two passes, with one being successful.
He also failed to complete his only attempted dribble.
Obi won just one of four aerial duels, while failing to win his only ground battle.
Although Obi’s stats were far from impressive on paper, he proved just how opportunistic he can be by making the most of the little bit of the ball he received.
He only got 11 touches on the ball, with his teammates struggling overall to supply him with chances. Still, he took five shots, proving just how opportunistic he can be and how hungry he is to make an impact.
It’s this burning desire that sparks confidence in his abilities, raising the question as to how well he will be able to perform once more promising opportunities come his way.
Overall, it will be exciting to see how the academy graduate adjusts to life in the first team as United’s US tour gets underway.
(Stats via Sofascore)
Featured image Linnea Rheborg via Getty Images
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Mathew Cohen A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.
