New Manchester United signing Matteo Darmian put in a solid shift during the 2-0 loss to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Italian started the game at right-back and was impressive both offensively and defensively. Darmian linked up well with Juan Mata and found himself in attacking positions on a number of occasions. The 25-year-old really did show great skill and finesse down the right-hand side and was arguably United’s best player.
With Luke Shaw replaced by Antonio Valencia during the second half, Darmian switched over to play at left-back for the first time in a United shirt. The former Torino man was comfortable on the opposite flank, as he and Andreas Pereira provided good energy down the left wing.
United fans and pundits were clearly delighted with Darmian’s performance:
https://twitter.com/PeoplesPerson_/status/626561586556207104
https://twitter.com/UnitedPeoplesTV/status/626564298622541824
If Matteo Darmian could just find a #mufc player with some of his crosses he would be the complete right back. Hope that comes
— Stuart Mathieson (@StuMathieson7) July 30, 2015
Brilliant from Darmian and Shaw so far.. Going forward every time and getting the ball in.. #mufc #Tour2015
— Aditya Reds (@aditya_reds) July 30, 2015
Darmian cleans up again, we might have shipped a couple more without him tonight! #DEVILSonTour
— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) July 30, 2015
https://twitter.com/UnitedPeoplesTV/status/626567257129357312
https://twitter.com/PeoplesPerson_/status/626581575841521664
Having impressed during pre-season, Darmian seems to have made the right-back spot his own.
One would now expect the Italian to begin the Premier League season there against Tottenham Hotspur. After his performance against PSG, there is no reason why Darmian can’t maintain his form during his debut campaign in England.