Old Trafford witnessed the dominant Manchester United four-goal win against Wigan Athletic. With a starting 11 without the likes of David De Gea between the sticks, Paul Pogba at midfield, and Zlatan Ibrahimovic up front, United comfortably put Wigan’s resistance at ease with a stellar performance from Anthony Martial and Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Marouane Fellaini opened the scoresheet with a header, with Schweinsteiger’s assist from close range in the 42nd minute, just before the half-time break. Chris Smalling followed in the 57th minute also with a close-range header thanks to Martial’s cross.

A counter attack in the 74th minute saw a beautiful link-up play between Martial and Mkhitaryan, which led to a goal from Mkhitaryan. Bastian Schweinsteiger closed with a stunning overhead kick from close range; it is a well-deserved finish to mark his return in the starting eleven. This win means United is through to the 5th round of the FA Cup. Youngsters Axel Tuanzebe and Joel Pereira made their debuts in this match.

Manchester United’s starting line-up

Jose Mourinho’s decision to rest David De Gea, Phil Jones, Antonio Valencia, Paul Pogba, Michael Carrick and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in the lineup proved to be a great one after seeing the result.

Sergio Romero safely guarded United’s goal with a clean-sheet, Fosu-Mensah covered the right wing spot nicely, Schweinsteiger pairing up with Fellaini in the midfield despite the first half’s slow start, dominated the midfield in the second half.

This game also marked the return of Luke Shaw on the left back spot after injury.

Anthony Martial, who was rumored to leave the club, showed an outstanding performance with two assists and a goal later in the game (unfortunately disallowed). With his preferred 4-2-3-1, Mourinho’s United proves that his team depth is ready to face what 2017 has in store for them.

The prodigal devils return

The lineup and triumph proved to be a surprise to many, but marked the return of some familiar names.

Luke Shaw’s and Bastian Schweinsteiger’s names in the starting eleven show the possibility of seeing them play regularly for Manchester United. Being the team that’s competing in four competitions (Premier League, League Cup, FA Cup, and Europa League) this season is not an easy task. Squad depth and consistency are needed for Manchester United to achieve success in those competitions. Thankfully this configuration of players might give the team the edge they need. United’s next game will be a Premier League fixture against Hull at Old Trafford on Wednesday. Hopefully, Mourinho and his men continue their winning ways.
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