Man Utd Player Ratings vs Arsenal: Cunha and Dorgu Screamers Shock Gunners as Carrick’s Brave Call Pays Off
Manchester United produced one of their most eye-catching performances of the season on Sunday, stunning Premier League leaders Arsenal with a dramatic 3–2 victory at the Emirates Stadium.
Caretaker head coach Michael Carrick made it two wins from two with a bold, front-foot approach that paid dividends late on, as Patrick Dorgu and substitute Matheus Cunha struck two sensational goals to swing the contest in United’s favour. The result not only dented Arsenal’s title push but also reinforced the sense that confidence — and belief — is returning to Old Trafford.
United were forced to respond after falling behind to an unfortunate Lisandro Martinez own goal, but goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Dorgu and Cunha sealed a memorable away win.
Below are the Manchester United player ratings from a pulsating night in north London.
Goalkeeper & Defence
Senne Lammens – 7/10
Alert when called upon, making smart saves from Martin Zubimendi and Bukayo Saka. Had little chance with Arsenal’s goals and was crowded at the set-piece that led to the equaliser.
Diogo Dalot – 6/10
A steady showing at right-back. Defended diligently against Leandro Trossard and showed discipline rather than adventure in possession.
Harry Maguire – 8/10
Outstanding at the heart of the defence. Dominant in the air, composed on the ball, and instrumental in United’s build-up play. One of his strongest displays of the campaign.
Lisandro Martinez – 6/10
Unlucky to concede the opening goal as the ball deflected off him under pressure. Redeemed himself with a crucial late tackle that snuffed out a dangerous Arsenal move.
Luke Shaw – 7/10
Tasked with containing Bukayo Saka and handled the challenge well. Timed his tackles intelligently and rarely allowed the winger clear space.
Midfield
Casemiro – 8/10
Rolled back the years with a commanding performance. Broke up play relentlessly and dictated the tempo during United’s best spells. Looked every bit the experienced leader.
Kobbie Mainoo – 7/10
Showed maturity beyond his years with a disciplined display. Grew into the game but understandably faded late on after a demanding shift.
Attack
Amad Diallo – 6/10
Not at his sharpest but still posed a threat with a few dangerous deliveries. Worked hard defensively to support Dalot.
Bruno Fernandes – 6/10
Influential in build-up play but wasteful in front of goal. Will feel he should have scored after missing two clear chances in the first half.
Bryan Mbeumo – 8/10
A constant menace to Arsenal’s back line. Pressed aggressively, unsettled William Saliba and Gabriel, and showed superb composure to round David Raya and equalise. A complete forward performance.
Patrick Dorgu – 8/10
Quiet early on but exploded into life after the break. His thunderous volley from outside the box was one of the goals of the season and shifted the momentum decisively.
Substitutes & Manager
Matheus Cunha – 8/10
Introduced at a crucial moment and delivered instantly. His curling strike to win the game was executed with confidence and quality, underlining his impact off the bench.
Benjamin Sesko – 6/10
Worked hard after coming on and was unfortunate not to prevent Arsenal’s second goal, despite a desperate attempt on the line.
Noussair Mazraoui – N/A
On for the closing minutes with little time to influence proceedings.
Michael Carrick – 8/10
Another brave and intelligent display of management. Kept faith with the same XI that beat Manchester City and urged his side to attack late on. His decision to replace Mbeumo with Cunha proved decisive, crowning a courageous tactical display.
A Night That Signals Belief
For all the questions surrounding United’s long-term direction, this performance delivered a powerful short-term message. The intensity, structure and fearlessness on display suggested a squad reconnecting with its identity — and enjoying itself again.
Whether this marks the start of something sustainable or simply a timely surge remains to be seen. But on this evidence, Manchester United look anything but fragile.
