It may have been the debut of Manchester United’s world record signing Paul Pogba, but it was another of the side’s superstars Zlatan Ibrahimovic who will steal the headlines. 

The Swedish striker was decisive for the Red Devils as they hosted a visiting Southhampton side as he netted twice to steer his side to a comfortable victory over tricky opposition.

Indeed, Southampton were far more competitive than many may have predicted. The Saints boasted 57 percent of the possession and had 13 shots compared to United’s 12 in the tie. It was United who were the more clinical of the sides, however, as hit five of their attempts on target, while Southampton managed just one accurate effort.

The man responsible for United’s deadly finishing was Ibrahimovic. The imposing striker powered home his first goal of the night with a deep header as he outleaped his marker after a great cross from Wayne Rooney.

The 34-year-old then notched his second goal of the night from the penalty spot. The award of the penalty came following a foul on Luke Shaw as he advanced into his former club’s penalty area. Ibrahimovic duly sent Frazer Foster the wrong way to grab his brace.

While the forward covered 9.33 kilometers and made 48 touches, according to Sky SPortd, it was the player’s goals proved the difference as United eased to a 2-0 victory.

Photo: Manchester Evening News