Jose Mourinho was finally given something to smile about as a tempestuous trip to the US ended with Manchester United’s 2-1 win over his former club Real Madrid thanks to first-half strikes from Alexis Sanchez and Ander Herrera.
Mourinho has cut a miserable figure during their two week trip to the US, lashing out at a lack of transfer activity while reserving stinging criticism for a number of first team players, AFP reported.
But seeing his side establish a two goal lead in the first half was encouraging, as was holding Real at bay after Karim Benezema’s goal just before the interval gave the Spanish side hope of mounting a comeback.
The Portuguese has been without 12 key players for most of the tour with many enjoying an extended break following the World Cup. In front of 64,141 spectators at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, United players were finishing off their pre-season preparations against Real Madrid squad just starting theirs.
Spanish international David de Gea was making his first start since returning from the extra time given to him following the World Cup and he was almost beaten in the eighth minute - Bale starting a move which saw Benzema fire just wide from close range.
Brazilian Fred, who was signed earlier this summer for $68 million, was making his first United start and looked comfortable in his new surroundings.
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