Manchester United's players are returning to pre-season this week, but a dozen Reds have been representing their nations at the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. As the quarter-finals approach, MEN Sport has reassessed the performances of United's international stars, with ratings ranging from a standout 8/10 for Amad to a disappointing 4/10 for Manuel Ugarte.
Goalkeepers and Defenders: Mixed Fortunes
Senne Lammens remains an unused substitute for Belgium due to Thibaut Courtois's presence, earning a 5/10 rating. Altay Bayindir also scored 5/10 after Turkey's early exit, having not played a single minute. Diogo Dalot contributed little for Portugal, managing only 45 minutes in a dead rubber against Colombia and 19 minutes against Spain, where Mikel Merino's winner knocked them out. He received a 5/10.
Noussair Mazraoui has been solid for Morocco, helping them reach the quarter-finals with a convincing win over Canada. He earned a 7/10 for his defensive displays. Lisandro Martinez has been a key figure for Argentina, scoring and assisting against Cape Verde, though a shaky display against Egypt tempered enthusiasm. He also scored 7/10.
Midfielders: Frustration and Promise
Kobbie Mainoo was an unused substitute for England against DR Congo, with Thomas Tuchel opting for Eberechi Eze. The teenager scored 5/10, with his mere inclusion in the squad seen as an achievement. Manuel Ugarte's tournament ended in injury for Uruguay, and he received a 4/10. Tyler Fletcher, a 19-year-old surprise call-up for Scotland, did not play but gained valuable experience, earning 5/10.
Bruno Fernandes struggled as Portugal's attack was built around Cristiano Ronaldo, leaving the United captain ineffectual. He managed just one assist and scored 6/10, with the hope that United will use him better.
Forwards: Bright Spots and Stalled Momentum
Marcus Rashford started well with a goal against Croatia but has seen his momentum stall, with Anthony Gordon taking the left-wing spot. Rashford was an unused substitute against Mexico and is likely to be benched for the quarter-final against Norway. He scored 6/10.
Amad has been United's standout performer at the World Cup, scoring the winner against Ecuador and a goal against Norway after being dropped. He earned an 8/10 rating. Matheus Cunha scored against Haiti and Scotland but had a flat display against Norway, ending with a 7/10.
