Aaron Wan-Bissaka put in a starring performance for Manchester United as they beat Brighton in their FA Cup semi-final on Sunday.
The right-back was a key player for Erik ten Hag’s side, largely nullifying the threat of Seagulls star Kaoru Mitoma while also – notably – providing an attacking threat of his own. It was an impressive showing from the former Crystal Palace ace, who is fighting for his future at United.
Bayer Leverkusen defender Jeremie Frimpong is in talks to join United this summer, adding competition to both Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot, who has also enjoyed prominence under Ten Hag this campaign.
The Dutch boss is keen to sign his fellow countryman Frimpong this summer due to his superb attacking output in the Bundesliga this campaign. However, Wan-Bissaka has grown into the manager’s plans this campaign and has notably improved elements of his attacking play.
In an interview with the Telegraph, Wan-Bissaka has open up on how Ten Hag has played a key role in him developing his game this season and generating a greater attacking threat. "You don't expect it to happen overnight. It takes time, concentration and focus and understanding," says Wan-Bissaka.
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Having started his youth career as a winger, it is little surprise that Wan-Bissaka can adapt but he is more noted for his superb defensive contribution – tracking runners and making perfectly-timed tackles at high speed, but Ten Hag demanded more from the player.
One particular sequence on Sunday caught the eye as during the second half, Wan-Bissaka went on a mazey run through Brighton ’s half in what was an extraordinary solo sequence of skill.
The right-back flicked the ball past Mitoma before charging forward, evading a challenge from Alexis MacAllister before darting past Pervis Estupinan, whom he beat several times having performed multiple stepovers and taking him on directly.
It was a piece of skill that BBC Sport labelled as ‘pure filth’ – meaning that it was an impressive expression of talent and self-belief. It was a moment that would have pleased Ten Hag and his coaching staff, who are seeing the improvements in the player.
Leicester playmaker James Maddison couldn't help but tweet upon seeing Wan-Bissaka’s performance on Sunday, noting his defensive ability in particular. He posted : “AWB is ridiculously good at 1 v 1 defending. Probably the best in the world bar none. So many wingers run out of ideas when playing directly against him.”
United had been listening to offers for Wan-Bissaka last summer but he has appeared to rekindled his career at the club with improving his offensive play to compliment his undoubtedly impressive defensive skillset.
