Manchester United will return to Premier League action next weekend with a crucial game against Southampton. Following a difficult start to the season, the team, managed by Erik ten Hag, is eager to regain their form and momentum. The match against Southampton is viewed as a chance to get their season back on track.
The international break has been timely for United, allowing key players like Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund to recover from injuries. Both are expected to rejoin the squad, with Shaw strengthening the defense and Hojlund enhancing the attack, offering Ten Hag more options upfront.
Manuel Ugarte could also make his debut, although his lack of recent club play might affect his starting chances. Having been active for Uruguay during the international window, Ugarte has been working on his fitness, but his limited training with the team raises doubts about his immediate inclusion. This situation could lead Ten Hag to continue with Casemiro in midfield, despite his recent poor performance against Liverpool.
Despite concerns over Casemiro’s form, Ten Hag may keep him as the defensive midfielder, though fans anticipate possible changes. The fixture against Southampton might see United revert to a familiar 4-2-2-2 formation, a setup Ten Hag might prefer for better balance.
A possible starting lineup for Manchester United might include:
1. **Goalkeeper – Andre Onana**
Despite his recent struggles, Onana is expected to remain as the first-choice goalkeeper and will need to rebuild his confidence.
2. **Center-back – Matthijs de Ligt**
De Ligt was a standout performer in the disappointing match against Liverpool and is likely to start again.
3. **Center-back – Lisandro Martinez**
Martinez is anticipated to partner de Ligt in defense, as he has been crucial to Ten Hag’s plans.
4. **Right-back – Noussair Mazraoui**
Mazraoui, who has performed well since joining United, will likely continue as the right-back.
5. **Left-back – Diogo Dalot**
With Shaw close to returning from injury, it’s safer for Dalot to remain at left-back for now.
6. **Defensive midfielder – Casemiro**
Although Casemiro has had a challenging start, he is expected to retain his spot in the defensive midfield role as Ugarte may not be ready to start.
7. **Defensive midfielder – Kobbie Mainoo**
Mainoo, a promising young talent, could start alongside Casemiro despite his recent form and potential need for rest.
8. **Attacking midfielder – Amad Diallo**
Diallo’s impressive performances this season might earn him a starting role in the attacking midfield position.
9. **Attacking midfielder – Bruno Fernandes**
Fernandes, the team’s captain and key playmaker, remains essential to United’s strategy and will lead the team against Southampton.
10. **Striker – Rasmus Hojlund**
If fully fit, Hojlund is expected to start, providing the physicality and goal-scoring ability needed up front.
11. **Striker – Marcus Rashford**
Rashford, one of United’s most dangerous attackers, could benefit from a two-striker setup, helping to create more scoring opportunities.
As Manchester United prepares for this pivotal match, Ten Hag will aim to find the optimal lineup and balance to secure a favorable outcome against Southampton. The return of key players could be the boost the team needs to begin turning their season around.