In their first match since receiving a 10-point deduction for financial rule breaches, Everton faced a charged atmosphere at Goodison Park, with home supporters displaying placards branding the Premier League as “corrupt.”

However, just three minutes into the game, Garnacho showcased a moment of brilliance, connecting with Diogo Dalot’s cross with a stunning volley into Jordan Pickford’s top left-hand corner.

Despite an uneven performance from United, Marcus Rashford’s penalty and Anthony Martial’s goal secured Erik ten Hag’s team’s fifth win in six league games.

United now sits in sixth place, only six points behind league leaders Arsenal, overcoming the challenges of a tumultuous season.

Everton, expressing their frustrations toward the authorities, slipped further into the relegation struggle, off the bottom of the table only on goal difference and five points adrift of safety.

After Garnacho’s early magic, Everton missed several chances, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin failing to capitalize on two excellent headed opportunities.

Teenager Kobbie Mainoo impressed in his first Premier League start for United, and only a goalline clearance prevented Dwight McNeil from equalizing after Andre Onana parried Calvert-Lewin’s initial effort.

Despite Everton’s dominance, Abdoulaye Doucoure squandered another golden opportunity before the break.

In the second half, VAR played a controversial role, awarding United a penalty after referee John Brooks initially booked Martial for diving. Bruno Fernandes handed the spot-kick to Rashford, who smashed home his first club goal since September 3.

Martial, starting in the absence of the injured Rasmus Hojlund, sealed United’s most significant league win of the season with a composed finish from Fernandes’ through ball 15 minutes from time.