Manchester United begins their season with a Community Shield match against Manchester City this afternoon at Wembley, marking a replay of the FA Cup final from May. Erik ten Hag aims for a third trophy in as many years as the new campaign starts, with necessary improvements expected across the team.
Both sides will miss key players, with United dealing with ongoing defensive injuries and some City stars still on holiday until next week.
Express Sport predicts how Ten Hag might set up his team for this final match before the Premier League begins next Friday.
**Goalkeeper – Onana**
Andre Onana, who played in nearly every game during his debut season for United and was active throughout pre-season, is expected to start. The Cameroon international has hinted at adopting a more adventurous style of play in his second year at Old Trafford, although he needs to enhance other aspects of his game.
**Defence – Dalot, Evans, Martinez, Amass**
Diogo Dalot, a late returnee to Carrington this summer, is set to remain as Ten Hag’s first-choice right-back, especially since Aaron Wan-Bissaka is doubtful for the City match. At left-back, Luke Shaw may not feature at Wembley, having only recently resumed pre-season training.
The 17-year-old Harry Amass might step in, potentially becoming United’s 251st academy graduate after getting substantial pre-season playtime. With Leny Yoro out for three months and Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof also uncertain, Lisandro Martinez and Jonny Evans are Ten Hag’s only fit center-backs.
**Midfield – Casemiro, Mainoo, Fernandes**
Casemiro is expected to stay at Old Trafford due to minimal interest and played all five of United’s pre-season matches. Kobbie Mainoo, who had a standout year, will be a key part of Ten Hag’s midfield and could start the season opener. If Mainoo is eased in, Mason Mount or Scott McTominay might play alongside Casemiro, supporting Bruno Fernandes. Despite not participating in pre-season due to Euro 2024, Fernandes is anticipated to be a reliable presence throughout the season.
**Attack – Amad, Rashford, Zirkzee**
Ten Hag faces a dilemma over who will start on the right wing among Amad, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Facundo Pellistri. Amad stood out in pre-season and is expected to have a strong season. Marcus Rashford is likely to start on the left after an influential pre-season, with Ten Hag confident in his improved performance. With Rasmus Hojlund out for six weeks with a hamstring injury, new signing Joshua Zirkzee is set to make his debut for United.
