Manchester United’s hopes of progressing into the Champions League knockout stages suffered a huge blow last week as they ended up on the wrong side of the 1-3 score-line against Thomas Tuchel’s men. Heading into matchday 6 of the group stage, it’s a do-or-die situation for the Red Devils as a win might cement their position at the top of Group H whereas a defeat will send them straight into the Europa League. The match being an away encounter for Ole’s side provides them with an edge as they have won all of their away league games this season and haven’t lost on their travels in the league since January.
On the other hand, The Red Bulls will come into the game on the back of an entertaining 3-3 draw with Bayern Munich. Julian Nagelasmann will be looking to up the tempo of his side this time around after an embarrassing 5-0 defeat at Old Trafford in the reverse fixture.
Team News
Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes are expected to make returns after being omitted from the starting line-up last weekend. The pair managed to turn the tables after being brought on at half-time in the league match vs West Ham.
Martial and Cavani had to make unplanned exits last time out. While the extent of their injury is not yet clear, Ole hopes that it isn’t too serious.
Fred remains suspended for the midweek clash after being sent off in his last game vs Paris Saint-Germain.
David De Gea looks set to make a return in between the sticks at the cost of United’s academy graduate, Dean Henderson.
Predicted Starting Line-up
Defence
David De Gea is expected to start in goal with Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire at the heart of United’s backline.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Alex Telles should retain their respective spots; with the latter having the license to make occasional attacking runs intended to break down Leipzig’s right flank.
Midfield
Scott McTominay is expected to start alongside Paul Pogba as the ball-winning midfielder. At the same time, the Frenchman will be instructed to enhance his side’s link-up play and drive at the opposition defence whenever possible.
Having set the standards high, Bruno Fernandes will be looking forward to having his usual galvanising effect on the game by topping the creativity charts once again.
With Martial looking likely to miss out, Rashford and Greenwood are presumed to provide United with the appropriate width high up the pitch as the former looks determined to add to his tally of six goals in the competition.
Attack
Edinson Cavani is expected to spearhead the attack for the away side. The Uruguayan striker is in decent form and can bag a couple of goals if provided with the adequate service.
