It wasn’t much of a buzz being a Manchester United fan lately. The last couple of matches under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and all five games under Ralf Rangnick (even though without a loss under the German) – were without dominance and that good ol’ Red Devils’ intimidating personality.However, the closing match of the calendar year put a smile on United supporters’ faces and they will for sure hope that 2022 will look like last night and have fewer ups and downs.Rangnick’s press conference after Burnley was more optimistic than the previous post-match press meetings were, and rightfully so. First half ‘blitzkrieg’ and materializing most of the major opportunities assured the German manager that the match will not be another stress-fest at Old Trafford.“It was, as expected, a really tough and difficult game against a team who play physically and very direct in parts. We knew that in advance so it was important we met the physical and technical demands. When the ball was in their half, we did well and also showed the qualities we have in our transition. [It was] Important to score. “In our half, there are things to improve on and we will work on that. It was important today to raise the energy level. Physically and energetically, it was a good performance.”Great way to end the year at Old Trafford – first half dominance to seal the dealAlong with Cristiano Ronaldo – who scored and assisted a goal each and as per usual drew a lot of focus on himself – one of the biggest factors of the match was Scott McTominay. The Scottish midfielder had numerous dangerous long-range shots (of which one ended up beautifully in the net) and important interceptions. His composure in the center of the pitch was more than a proper replacement for Bruno Fernandes who sat this match out due to his yellow cards suspension.“We only decided this afternoon at two o’clock that he would play because he still had some problems with his ankle that he suffered at Newcastle. So it was good to have him available and in the team. At half-time, our team doctor said he would be struggling in the second half after the level of pain but it was important to have him in the team and he was able to play for 93 minutes. A very important player for us today.”Some down-moments did happen. The second half lacked the first-period intensity but that could be understood – two-goal advantage and avoiding necessary fatigue. Also, Eric Bailly’s substitute brought brief concern but the Ivorian assured the public he is fine.Wed, 12/01, 22.00: (7.50) E. GUINEA (3.80) IVORY COAST (1.53)Speaking in the post-match press conference, Rangnick revealed Bailly had already left United for the upcoming tournament in Cameroon but helpfully returned when Victor Lindelof tested positive for COVID-19.“Eric had already left, actually, three or four days ago for the Africa Cup of Nations, but he was still in Spain and we asked him to come back,” said the German to reporters. “I think he did well, apart from the mistake for the goal we conceded, so I think it was a very good performance from Eric. It was very concentrated and very focused.”
