The manager made significant changes to the starting lineup following the dominant 7-0 victory over League One side Barnsley in the third round of the Carabao Cup earlier this week. Eight adjustments have been made for the upcoming match, reflecting a shift in strategy.
In goal, Andre Onana has been reinstated, replacing Altay Bayindir, who had made just his second appearance for Manchester United during the midweek fixture at Old Trafford.
In defense, Diogo Dalot retains his position, but both Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans, who featured in the previous game, have been relegated to the bench. Toby Collyer, who started as left-back in the Barnsley match, has not been included in the squad for this fixture.
The central defensive partnership will now consist of Matthijs de Ligt alongside Lisandro Martinez, while Noussair Mazraoui has been chosen to start at right-back, likely pushing Dalot to the left side of the defense. These changes signal a more experienced and solid defensive line for this match.
In midfield, Christian Eriksen has been selected over Manuel Ugarte, which aligns with the hints provided earlier by manager Erik ten Hag. Kobbie Mainoo will join Eriksen in central midfield, while Bruno Fernandes is set to operate in his usual number ten role, orchestrating the team’s attack.
The wide attacking positions have been given to Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho, who will provide width and creativity from the flanks. Up front, Joshua Zirkzee has been chosen to spearhead the attack, leading the line for Ten Hag’s side.
Notably, Antony, who started the midweek game, has been relegated to the bench for this encounter. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford is absent from the starting lineup, possibly due to a minor injury concern or knock that he may have picked up recently.
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