United Debutants: How Did They Fare?

Four Reds made their Old Trafford debuts on Sunday against QPR. Here, we run the rule over their performances and impact on the game…

Angel Di Maria | Home debut | Minutes played: 83
It was a sparkling first outing at Old Trafford from the agile Argentinian. His skill, balance and attacking intent were a joy to watch as he inspired United's 4-0 victory over QPR. A goal and an assist (he was also involved in United's other two strikes) on your home debut is bound to attract headlines, but more than that it was his range of passing, vision, creativity and boundless energy in attack that constantly had fans out of their seats. Best of all, this is clearly no flash in the pan – there’s more to come. We’re in for a treat. His standing ovation was fully deserved and so was his Man of the Match award.

Daley Blind | United debut | Minutes played: 90
While Di Maria will rightly take the attention, the job done by debutant Daley Blind in the demolition of QPR cannot be underestimated. Starting his first match at Old Trafford in front of a back four completely new to him, the Dutchman, who went close to scoring late on, slotted into the United side with total ease; in the opening ten minutes he played more passes than anyone else on the field. Calm, intelligent and able to pick a pass, he already looks set to be a vital cog in this exciting, new-look United side.

Marcos Rojo | United debut | Minutes played: 90
It seems like an age since the Argentinian put pen to paper with United, but while the 24-year-old will have tougher tests than this, he looked comfortable in his new surroundings.

Rojo’s versatility was a USP that appealed to Louis van Gaal, and he slotted in at left-back for his debut as the manager opted for a back four. His guiding of the relatively inexperienced Tyler Blackett throughout was nice to see. A quietly effective first appearance.

Radamel Falcao | United debut | Minutes played: 23
Fans spent much of the match singing the terrace anthem borrowed from Atletico Madrid’s supporters as anticipation grew about seeing one of the world's most renowned finishers in action in a United shirt. When he finally entered the fray on 67 minutes, the score was already 4-0. The hotshot Colombian might have hoped to be involved when the pace and pressing was high, but he had one half-chance when Blind’s long-range effort was parried by Rob Green. He was sharp to it, but saw his shot saved. Still, El Tigre is clearly quick to pounce.