Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
Manchester United looked comfortable against Sabah, and it allowed two players to strengthen a budding partnership at Old Trafford.
There was pressure on Manchester United to deliver in the Champions League, and a 4-0 win over Sabah is just what Michael Carrick needed.
Four different goalscorers found the back of the net at Old Trafford to fire the Red Devils up to fourth in the Champions League table.
There were plenty of standout performers vs Sabah, but the blossoming relationship between Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans was a particularly exciting feature.
FBL-EUR-C1-MAN UTD-SABAH
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
FBL-EUR-C1-MAN UTD-SABAH
Photo by Darren Staples / AFP via Getty Images
Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans are developing an understanding
When United signed Tielemans for £35m this summer, many immediately speculated that he would play well alongside Fernandes.
Fernandes raved about Tielemans upon his arrival at Old Trafford, and their highly technical style of play certainly complements each other in the heart of midfield.
It has been a fairly underwhelming start for United in the Premier League, but both Fernandes and Tielemans have started the season well.
Against Sabah, though, they both reached a new level, combining brilliantly for United’s second goal.
Tielemans linked up well with Fernandes around the box and the Belgian international then slipped in the United captain to find the back of the net in a flowing piece of play.
It is a sign of things to come, and a sign that they are quickly getting to learn how each other play.
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Bruno Fernandes has first midfield partner since Paul Pogba
Throughout his United career, Fernandes has shared the pitch with countless teammates, including several different midfield partnerships.
But Fernandes has not had a truly technical midfielder playing behind him since Paul Pogba, and the World Cup-winning star left United in 2022.
READ MORE: Manchester United 4-0 Sabah stats: Dorgu dominates, Mainoo dazzles & 52-touch star took control
Christian Eriksen did link up well with Fernandes, but didn’t play frequently enough to form a consistent partnership.
However, it seems as though both Fernandes and Tielemans are concrete starters under Carrick, and their relationship will continue to blossom.