Red Devils Unleash Fury: Man Utd Stars Shine Bright in Crushing 4-1 Bournemouth Demolition

Manchester United swept past Bournemouth with a commanding 4–1 victory in what proved to be the Red Devils' finest preseason display.

Rasmus Højlund started the match similarly to his outing against West Ham United, but this time the Danish striker found the target rather than striking the frame. A strike that the player rightfully celebrated given the challenges he has endured as a Man Utd player. While not the most polished finish, it was executed with the lightest of touches, potentially providing the momentum he needs heading into their final U.S. tour fixture. The forward expertly guided a Patrick Dorgu delivery into the net.

The assist provider became the goalscorer within 20 minutes after receiving a through ball from Mason Mount. Scoring and setting up a goal against a Bournemouth team that has seen key departures this summer, yet comes off their best-ever campaign, demonstrates an encouraging beginning for the young defender seeking to establish himself at Old Trafford.

The Cherries responded by applying pressure on Man Utd through their skilled forwards including Dango Ouattara, Antoine Semenyo and Evanilson. Backup goalkeeper Tom Heaton was forced into several saves and appeared uncertain at moments, though he maintained a shutout going into the break.

Chicago earned its reputation as the 'windy city' as weather conditions deteriorated before players returned for the second period. Despite the rain and gusts, Man Utd maintained their attacking momentum as Amad Diallo registered a third goal for the Red Devils. Ruben Amorim made a single halftime substitution, introducing Matthijs de Ligt for Harry Maguire before implementing sweeping changes at the 70-minute mark.

19-year-old forward Ethan Williams provided the perfect finishing touch by netting a fourth goal after coming off the bench. The match concluded disappointingly with a De Ligt own goal, though this shouldn't overshadow the overall display.

Perhaps the most encouraging aspect for Man Utd supporters was the team's unity on display. Players rotated to fill spaces, recognized match situations and appeared like a squad that is developing through a complete preseason under their coach.

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

Man Utd Player Ratings vs. Bournemouth (3-4-2-1)

GK: Tom Heaton—6/10—The backup goalkeeper probably won't see much playing time, if any, this campaign. He was unfortunate to allow a goal in the final moments of the match.

CB: Luke Shaw—6/10—Shaw began as the left-sided center back alongside Maguire. Shaw needs to remain healthy to be dependable throughout the season, though there's an intriguing possibility if the natural fullback can thrive behind Dorgu.

CB: Harry Maguire—6/10—Maguire was withdrawn at the interval. While Heaton faced pressure at times, Maguire remains crucial to Man Utd's success this season.

CB: Leny Yoro—7/10—The French defender was reliable once more as Amorim seeks to maximize the young player's potential.

RWB: Diogo Dalot—6/10—Dalot's versatility and capability to operate on either flank should serve Amorim well in squad rotation throughout the season.

CM: Bruno Fernandes—7/10—Following a standout display against West Ham, Amorim positioned Fernandes in a deeper role to help orchestrate transitional attacks while providing energy alongside Casemiro.

CM: Casemiro—6/10—The Brazilian displayed moments of brilliance and inconsistency. His veteran presence should prove beneficial in the upcoming season, though Amorim repositioned Fernandes deeper for good reason.

LWB: Patrick Dorgu—8/10—An outstanding showing from the 20-year-old. The January acquisition, like most of Man Utd, struggled in the previous campaign. However, he appears comfortable after an impressive battle against Aaron Wan-Bissaka last match and two goal involvements tonight.

AM: Mason Mount—6/10—Mount received credit for the assist on Dorgu's strike as he operated in one of the dual attacking midfielder roles in Amorim's formation.

AM: Amad Diallo—7/10—Diallo was among the bright spots last season. He started in a more advanced position after playing as a wing back against Man Utd and justified his manager's faith with a goal.

ST: Rasmus Højlund—7/10—The Danish striker showed determination once more and was finally rewarded with a goal for his persistence. His future has been questioned, but another solid showing against Everton in their final Summer Series match should secure him a starting role against Arsenal in the season opener.

Player of the Match: Patrick Dorgu