Red Devils Strike First Blood: Man Utd Stars Shine in Thrilling 2-1 Victory Over West Ham to Launch Summer Campaign

Manchester United secured a 2–1 victory over West Ham United in their preseason encounter on Saturday at MetLife Stadium, launching their Premier League Summer Series campaign with a triumph.

Rasmus Højlund, given the nod to lead the attack with Bruno Fernandes and new acquisition Matheus Cunha operating behind him, almost ignited the Man Utd faithful at MetLife Stadium in the early stages. The Danish forward struck the frame of the goal as the Red Devils pressed forward.

Shortly after from a dead ball situation, West Ham keeper Alphonse Areola fumbled a loose ball following a collision with El Hadji Malick Diouf. During the chaos, Areola brought down Ayden Heaven, conceding a spot kick. Bruno Fernandes, who garnered the loudest cheers throughout both matches in New Jersey that day, confidently converted the opener as Areola remained stationary.

Much of the first-half drama revolved around the tactical duel between Man Utd's Patrick Dorgu and West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Man Utd appeared the more threatening side going forward during the initial 20 minutes as Matheus Cunha, Fernandes and Højlund combined effectively around the penalty area.

Leny Yoro was shown the first caution of the exhibition match in the 31st minute for delaying play and slowing the restart. The center-back almost redeemed himself moments later when he nearly guided a header goalward from a Fernandes set piece. Amad Diallo also threatened to extend Man Utd's advantage in the 38th minute but was ruled in an offside position.

Emerging from the break for the second period, Amorim chose to maintain his starting eleven on the field. Fernandes found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper but couldn't find the right touch to beat Areola. The Portuguese skipper proved to be the most impactful player for the Red Devils, continuing his form from the previous campaign. Minutes later, Fernandes successfully added his second goal, catching Areola off-balance inside the area.

Jarrod Bowen pulled the Hammers level in the 63rd minute with a right-footed strike that defeated Altay Bayındır. Players paused for a cooling break following the goal, which led Amorim to implement sweeping substitutions. He withdrew everyone except Bayındır to finish the contest.

All in all, a respectable showing from a Man Utd squad that has yet to integrate Bryan Mbeumo into their setup. The Cameroonian is traveling with the team in the United States but sat out today's fixture as he regains match sharpness. He may feature when Man Utd face Bournemouth in Chicago at Soldier Field on Wednesday.

Sports Illustrated's Manchester United player assessments from the encounter below.

Man Utd Player Ratings vs. West Ham United (3-4-2-1)

GK: Altay Bayındır—6/10—The shot-stopper had limited involvement today while deputizing for André Onana. His most crucial contribution came in added time to prevent West Ham from finding an equalizer.

CB: Ayden Heaven—5/10—The ex-Arsenal youth product was given an opportunity by Amorim and appeared composed in the opening half, but struggled defensively against Bowen for West Ham's lone strike.

CB: Matthijs de Ligt—6/10—The Netherlands international was reliable at the heart of the backline with two younger defenders beside him. A satisfactory display that the former Bayern Munich star can use as a foundation going forward.

CB: Leny Yoro—6/10—The French defender received an unnecessary booking, aside from that he was adequate.

RWB: Amad Diallo—6/10—One of Man Utd's standout performers from last term looked energetic along the right wing. He almost found the net if not for being marginally offside.

CM: Manuel Ugarte—6/10—Ugarte operated in a central partnership for the majority of the match alongside Kobbie Mainoo. He appeared steady, though supporters will expect more from the Uruguayan during this summer's preparations.

CM: Kobbie Mainoo—6/10—A competent, though not spectacular showing from Mainoo.

LWB: Patrick Dorgu—6/10—Dorgu faced a challenging task against an active Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The January acquisition handled himself well, but must continue to impress if he wants to secure a regular starting role.

AM: Bruno Fernandes—8/10—The Portuguese leader was the standout performer on the field for both sides. He earned the warmest welcome throughout the day and rightfully claims the man of the match honor. An excellent display from Fernandes.

AM: Matheus Cunha—6/10—The ex-Wolves player appeared to still be adjusting to the tactical setup and finding his rhythm. As he continues to settle, Cunha and Fernandes could develop a potent combination with the addition of Bryan Mbeumo.

ST: Rasmus Højlund—6/10—He failed to register a goal, but the Danish striker showed commitment from the opening whistle. His future at Man Utd remains uncertain before the transfer window closes, but Amorim should consider him for another start in either Chicago or Atlanta.

Player of the Match: Bruno Fernandes