Manchester United will lock horns with Real Sociedad at the Old Trafford on Thursday night, hoping to pick up a positive result and proceed into the round of 16 of the Europa League. The Red Devils will be heading into the contest on the back of an impressive 3-1 victory over Newcastle United, whereas the visitors registered a 4-0 win over Alaves in the La Liga last Sunday.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will probably opt for the 4-2-3-1 formation with a few tweaks from the last game as Mason Greenwood looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
4-2-3-1 Manchester United Predicted Lineup Vs Real Sociedad
Defence
Dean Henderson will operate in between the sticks for the upcoming home encounter. The English shot-stopper made some brilliant saves to keep a clean sheet in the first leg, and he’ll be hoping to repeat more of the same this time.
Eric Bailly will replace Victor Lindelof to form the centre-half partnership with skipper Harry Maguire at the heart of United’s backline.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is a guaranteed starter at the right-back position, whereas Luke Shaw will continue to fill in on the other flank as the left-back. The duo has been in blistering form over the past few months, and they would be looking forward to adding to their streak of impressive performances against the Ryals.
Midfield
Nemanja Matic and Fred will fulfil the holding midfield positions, with the latter occupying a more central role. Fred put up a strong performance against the Ryals last week as he shielded the backline effectively throughout the ninety minutes.
Scott McTominay remains a doubt ahead of the midweek clash after sustaining an ankle injury.
“Yeah, Scott [McTominay] as well injured, Nemanja had to come in. Scotty hurt his ankle. Nemanja has played many games, and he’s ready to get going.” – Solskjaer revealed in his press conference prior to the Newcastle game.
Bruno Fernandes will slot into the attacking midfield role. The Portuguese playmaker got his name on the scoresheet last Sunday, and he’ll be hoping to repeat more of the same on Thursday.
Fernandes will be accompanied by Mason Greenwood and Daniel James on either side, playing on the left and right-wing respectively. The duo will be looking to use their pace and directness to breeze past the Sociedad defence.
Attack
Marcus Rashford will lead the line for the hosts against Real Sociedad. The in-form English striker will fancy his chances of finding the back of the net when he faces off against the Sociedad defence that has conceded 14 goals in the last seven games.
Edinson Cavani remains a concern as well.
“He’s [Cavani] not fit yet. With injuries, we can’t force players to play too early; it’s too risky. Hopefully Thursday, maybe Sunday.” – The Norwegian coach stated.
