92% pass success rate! Manchester United's "£70 million man" dazzles in debut, partnering with Lisandro Martinez to elevate the defense.

In the second preseason match, Manchester United faced Scottish powerhouse Rangers. The result wasn't the primary concern; the spotlight was on Yoro, the recent £70 million signing. After joining, the 18-year-old promptly integrated into team training and was named in the starting lineup by Erik ten Hag. This move reflected both the manager's trust in the new recruit and the urgent need for Yoro to quickly adapt and shoulder defensive responsibilities in the new season.

Manchester United ultimately won 2-0, and Yoro delivered an impressive performance during his 45 minutes on the pitch. In the first half, he attempted 48 passes with 45 successful, achieving a 92% success rate. He also succeeded in one ground duel, made one clearance, one tackle, attempted seven long passes with four successful, and lost possession four times.

Statistically, Yoro's standout attribute was undoubtedly his passing ability, aligning with prior external assessments. Indeed, Yoro gained attention in Ligue 1 last season for his excellent passing; his 92% pass success rate ranked second within Lille and third among players in his position in the French league. Beyond his passing prowess, Yoro also displayed other qualities in this match.

Despite being only 18, Yoro exhibited maturity beyond his years: sensible decision-making, decisive and accurate touches, excellent defensive awareness, and strong positional sense. He also possesses decent speed and strong aerial ability, clearly a world-class center-back prospect. His potential weakness might be physical strength; his slender frame will face tests in the Premier League, but he is only 18. Talent is innate, but physique can be developed. Barring surprises, Yoro and Lisandro Martinez will form United's central defensive partnership next season, and this duo combined with goalkeeper Onana could propel United's defense to new heights!

It is well known that since Erik ten Hag took charge at Manchester United, he has consistently emphasized the importance of defensive ball-playing, yet he hasn't achieved the desired effect largely due to player profiles not meeting his requirements. Harry Maguire's passing is decent but he has clear limitations: slow pace and lack of agility. Partnering with Raphael Varane yielded the best results, but "the Professor" had injury concerns and couldn't be a long-term fixed partner.

After the season ended, Varane departed as his contract expired, and Yoro, dubbed "the new Varane," is set to be a cornerstone of United's rebuild. Lisandro Martinez's performances in the Copa América were evident: starting five matches, conceding only one goal overall, averaging 1.2 tackles, 1 interception, 2.6 clearances per game, with a pass success rate of 92%. Martinez's ball-playing is top-tier, and Yoro is similarly outstanding; two ball-playing center-backs forming a defensive triangle with Onana establishes the foundation for a cohesive passing system.

Although Frenkie de Jong wasn't secured, Kobbie Mainoo has matured. The young midfielder also displays steady style: ball control, evasion, progression, distribution—he is Ten Hag's cultivated "new De Jong." Additionally, Ugarte is close to joining, enhancing United's midfield defensive capabilities. The attack has added Zirkzee to compete with Højlund, and Amad Diallo's progress is visible. If the wing-back positions can also be strengthened, Manchester United's new season promises genuine hope!