Erik ten Hag might have a new player in his best Manchester United team after Atletico Madrid match

'The King' might be returning to action for Manchester United on Sunday, but Cristiano Ronaldo's title now holds a ceremonial role rather than one of power over his teammates. Erik ten Hag took the strongest side available to Oslo for the match against Atletico Madrid and, in his absence, all but confirmed the side he will use against Brighton in their Premier League opener next weekend.

United fans have had to take their pre-season results with a pinch of salt given that, despite being impressive, they count for nothing, Saturday's win over the side that knocked them out of the Champions League last season will hardly be revenge if early season form slumps again.

Atletico were always going to be the toughest test United would face in the summer, and the opening minutes looked to be a reality check as the La Liga side pressed with intensity against their backline.

READ MORE: How the United players rated vs Atletico

But as the saying goes, pressure makes diamonds, and with the summer addition of Tyrell Malacia they have one in the rough. Not many fans would have demanded a new left-back's arrival this year, but they'll be glad they did after another impressive display.

Diogo Dalot has fought off competition from Aaron Wan-Bissaka to be the first choice on the right side of defence, and it feels like Malacia might do similar on the left. His starting role was helped by Luke Shaw's absence through illness, but he certainly made his case with his calmness in possession when playing out from the back against an Atletico side that adopted a physical approach not often seen in a 'friendly'.

The 22-year-old was not only sensible with the ball at his feet when in possession, but he knew when to take educated risks too. His