Manchester United will brace themselves for a tough challenge ahead as they face last season’s Champions League semi-finalists, RB Leipzig, on Wednesday. It is going to be a fascinating encounter as the Red Devils look to continue from their amazing win over PSG in the opening fixture while their opposition will be looking to remain at the top.
Predicted Manchester United Lineup Vs RB Leipzig
Defence
Manchester United manager Ole-Gunnar Solskjaer will continue to miss out on the services of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones in defence, though that isn’t likely to make any difference to the planned eleven.
United are likely to revert to a back three they used against PSG, so we might see the return of Axel Tuanzebe in central defence, partnering Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof. They will be crucial in preventing the likes of Emil Forsberg, Yussuf Poulsen and Hwang Hee-chan.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, meanwhile, is expected to operate as a right wingback, though the Englishman will primarily be in charge of keeping a close eye on the likes of Marcel Sabitzer and Angelino. New signing Alex Telles, on the other hand, could enjoy a more attacking role, though the Brazilian still needs to be careful of Leipzig’s forays down the flanks.
David de Gea is once again a guaranteed starter in goal after helping Man United secure all three points against PSG in the last game.
Midfield
In midfield, Solskjaer could face a selection dilemma as RB Leipzig may find it easy to expose Nemanja Matic, who lacks pace. Scott McTominay isn’t a reliable option either, so we might see Paul Pogba returning to the starting lineup.
The Frenchman is expected to partner Fred in the double-pivot as they look to provide solidity in United’s second line of press. It will be interesting to see the duel between Kevin Kampl and Paul Pogba this midweek.
Attack
Solskjaer has a bunch of options in the attacking unit, especially given the fact that Anthony Martial’s suspension doesn’t apply to European matches. The Frenchman, therefore, is likely to spearhead the Man United attack alongside Marcus Rashford.
They will be supported by the creative duo of Pogba and Bruno Fernandes, with the latter in particular set to operate as the number ten. Meanwhile, Solskjaer also has the option of deploying Edinson Cavani, who made his Premier League debut in the draw with Chelsea on the weekend.
