Manchester United are set to face FC Twente in the Europa League today, with manager Erik ten Hag naming a largely unchanged squad from their previous match against Crystal Palace. Despite some ongoing injury concerns in defense, the team will not face any fresh setbacks as they aim to begin their European campaign on a positive note.
Manuel Ugarte, a key new signing, is set to make his European debut for the club, having already shown his quality in domestic competition, notably in the Carabao Cup victory over Barnsley.
Ten Hag, who played for FC Twente in three separate spells during his playing career, now faces them as United’s manager in a revamped Europa League format, with eight league-phase matches on the horizon. United’s last outing was a goalless draw against Crystal Palace, and the same squad is available for selection today.
Luke Shaw remains sidelined, having been out of action since February, but Ten Hag has expressed hope that the left-back will return before the upcoming international break. However, he cautioned that Shaw’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, and it’s possible his return may be slightly delayed.
Other key absentees include Victor Lindelof, Tyrell Malacia, and Leny Yoro, all of whom are still unavailable due to injury. However, Ugarte is expected to continue in midfield, and Marcus Rashford, eager to build on his recent form, returns to the starting lineup after being rested against Crystal Palace.
Additionally, striker Rasmus Hojlund is back from injury and fit for selection, although Ten Hag may exercise caution in reintroducing him into the starting XI.
The confirmed Manchester United starting lineup includes: Onana in goal; a defense comprising Mazraoui, Maguire, Martinez, and Dalot; Eriksen and Ugarte in midfield; and a front four of Adam, Fernandez, Rashford, and Zirkzee. On the bench, key players such as De Ligt, Casemiro, Antony, and Hojlund are available as options if needed.
With a blend of experience and youth, Ten Hag’s squad will be looking to make an early statement in their European campaign, while keeping an eye on key players returning from injury over the coming weeks.
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