Man United Predicted Starting XI vs Crystal Palace: Rashford to Start, 3 Major Changes Expected
As Manchester United prepare for their upcoming Premier League clash against Crystal Palace this weekend, Ruben Amorim is expected to make several changes to his starting XI following their midweek Europa League win against FCSB.
Here’s the latest team news and injury updates ahead of the game, along with our predicted starting XI:
Team News:
- Marcus Rashford is set to return to the starting lineup after missing some games due to fitness issues. The winger will likely feature on the left-wing, looking to build on his recent performances.
- Alejandro Garnacho could potentially be given a rest after his involvement in the Europa League, with Rashford likely to be preferred.
- Bruno Fernandes remains a key figure in Amorim’s system, and he will continue to play an essential role in the team’s midfield and attack.
- Lisandro Martinez and Raphaël Varane are expected to form the centre-back partnership, barring any last-minute injuries.
- Diogo Dalot has been in good form at right-back and should keep his place, but there may be some rotation at left-back.
- Kobbie Mainoo impressed in the Europa League and could see more minutes, possibly starting in midfield in place of one of the more established players.
Injury Updates:
- Jadon Sancho remains sidelined due to ongoing fitness issues and disciplinary concerns, so he won’t feature in this game.
- Antony is still recovering from injury and won’t be available for selection, leaving Amorim with limited options on the right side.
- Casemiro could return to the starting XI after sitting out the Europa League match due to suspension, but this is still uncertain.
Predicted Starting XI vs Crystal Palace (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper:
- David de Gea
- The Spanish goalkeeper remains first-choice, with his reliable shot-stopping abilities and leadership in the defensive setup.
- Right-back:
- Diogo Dalot
- Dalot has been a standout performer at right-back and is likely to retain his spot. He offers a lot of energy going forward and is solid defensively.
- Centre-back:
- Raphaël Varane
- The French defender has been a rock at the back for United this season and will play a key role in keeping Crystal Palace‘s attack at bay.
- Centre-back:
- Lisandro Martinez
- Martinez‘s combative style makes him crucial in matches like this. His reading of the game and leadership from the back will be essential against a physical Palace side.
- Left-back:
- Luke Shaw (or Tyrell Malacia)
- Shaw has been the preferred option recently, but given Malacia’s energy, there’s a chance he could start to provide fresh legs and an attacking threat from the left.
- Defensive Midfield:
- Casemiro
- Casemiro‘s return will be crucial in midfield. He provides balance, leadership, and defensive solidity. Expect him to anchor the midfield and shield the backline.
- Defensive Midfield:
- Kobbie Mainoo
- Given his strong performance in the Europa League, Mainoo could get the nod next to Casemiro. His ability to progress the ball and link up play will be vital.
- Attacking Midfield:
- Bruno Fernandes
- Fernandes continues to be the creative heartbeat of the team. He’ll operate as the No. 10, looking to unlock Palace’s defense with his vision and passing range.
- Right-wing:
- Antony (if fit) or Facundo Pellistri
- With Antony still in recovery, Pellistri could get a start on the right wing. The Uruguayan winger offers directness and pace but will need to improve his final product.
- Left-wing:
- Marcus Rashford
- The English winger will be key to breaking down Palace’s defense with his pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. He’s been one of United’s best attackers this season.
- Striker:
- Anthony Martial
- Martial is expected to lead the line with Cristiano Ronaldo leaving the club. Martial brings a good combination of hold-up play and movement, although fitness remains a concern.
Tactics & Key Battles:
- Crystal Palace will likely play a compact and disciplined defensive setup, looking to frustrate United. They rely on quick counter-attacks and set-pieces, so United‘s defense will have to stay alert.
- The battle between Dalot and Wilfried Zaha on the wing will be key. Zaha’s pace and dribbling can cause problems, and Dalot will need to be defensively solid while offering width going forward.
- Mainoo‘s role in midfield will be crucial, as he will have to deal with the physicality of Palace’s midfield while also looking to progress the ball forward.
Conclusion:
With Ruben Amorim looking for his first Premier League win at Old Trafford, this will be a crucial match for United to continue their momentum in the league. With Marcus Rashford returning to the lineup and Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield, United will need to break down a stubborn Crystal Palace side, who will likely look to play on the counter.
Expect United to have more possession, but they’ll need to be patient and clinical in the final third to come away with all three points.
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