Notable, too, were the marauding runs of Leny Yoro, who was happy to partner in attack with Amad, fulfilling the right-wing-back role again. We know the attacking qualities of Amad, so it was a first-half injury-time moment where he tackled well in defence and won a free-kick that stood out. Likewise, we know the defensive ability of Leny, so his composure in the final third 29 minutes in was good to see.
In midfield, Ugarte and Mainoo brought energy. The latter, Ruben explained the day before, is a “big talent” who “needs to increase the rhythm, the pace.”
“I’m always on top of that with Kobbie,” Ruben said, “because he’s so good sometimes, but he can be better.”
The young England international looks set to play in a deeper role in the coming campaign.
“Last year, he played more in front,” Amorim explained. “I think his perfect position is more near the ball, always with the ball.”
A 45th-minute highlight on the right wing saw him playing with that pace, moving it fast after a good quick ball out from Altay Bayindir. Cunha received it centrally with a fantastic direction-changing touch that sold his man. These were good signs.
Overhead, a private plane circled endlessly, providing the pilot and passengers with a particularly unique view of this game. In this massive stadium, those at the top of the third tier might have had a similar sight beneath them, and they were loving it.
Bruno’s second-half goal provided the moment of magic those in attendance wanted. It was a beautiful strike. And those behind the goal it was scored in enjoyed the second half, watching United’s substitutes warm up right in front of them. Harry Maguire was the most popular, with a huge cheer soon greeting him as he was brought on alongside nine other outfielders, shortly after Jarrad Bowen got one back for the Hammers with a fine finish.
While there were good moments late on — Chido Obi showed great footwork 72 minutes in — the game ended without significant further chances for either side, until Bayindir made an excellent save late on.