The difference between the two teams was Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross for Raphael Varane, which saw United leave Old Trafford with all three points.
There were hardly any standout solo performances on the night. Manchester United’s man of the match was Andre Onana. He and the two defenders involved in the winner had a close-run battle.
Mason Mount, another new addition, was far more disappointing, with Erik ten Hag’s gung-ho tactical style almost backfiring.
Wan-Bissaka named to ‘team of the week’
The only Manchester United player named to the WhoScored.com Team of the Week was Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
The right-back received an 8.3/10 performance rating and was the top Premier League player in his position throughout the weekend.
Two Wolves players were called up, with Matheus Nunes and Craig Dawson both deserving of praise following outstanding performances that put United to the test.
The right-back wants more assists.
Wan-Bissaka began his season with an assist and a clean sheet in his first game on 2023/24.
The assist was especially significant given that, despite several excellent performances, he did not manage a single one in the Premier League previous season. In both 2020/21 and 2019/20, his season high was four league assists.
Wan-Bissaka told The Athletic last week: “We do some attack versus defense, but obviously with Ten Hag he is focused on the attack, whereas at Palace it was the defense.”
When asked if he desired more assists, he replied, “Certainly, especially if I’m going to be in those positions.” It’ll be fantastic to be able to push those figures.”