Manchester United will lock horns with AC Milan at Old Trafford on Thursday night as the teams look set to resume their UEFA Europa League campaign.
The Red Devils will be coming into the match on the back of an impressive 2-0 win over Manchester City, whereas Stefano Pioli’s men recorded a similar 2-0 victory against Hellas Verona earlier this week.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will probably opt for the 4-2-3-1 formation with some tweaks from the last game as several key players look likely to be rested in the first leg of the clash. Eric Bailly might get the nod over Victor Lindelof, whereas Alex Telles looks likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
4-2-3-1 Predicted Manchester United Line-up To Face AC Milan
Defence
Dean Henderson is expected to continue in goal for the upcoming home encounter. The English shot-stopper would be looking to add to the tally of four clean sheets in the last five starts across all competitions.
David de Gea missed out on the 2-0 win over Pep Guardiola’s men due to personal reasons, and it’s a tough task to know if he’s going to be back in time for the midweek clash.
As mentioned above, 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 Alex Telles will come in for Luke Shaw on the other flank as the left-back.
Midfield
Nemanja Matic is likely to feature against the Rossoneri and form a double pivot alongside Fred, thus shielding the entire backline.
Bruno Fernandes and Anthony Martial remain sure-fire starters for United this week, and it’ll be an understatement to say The Red Devils will be highly dependent on the former’s creative work if they want to stand a chance against AC Milan.
Marcus Rashford looks likely to be rested as he hobbled off the pitch around the 70-minute-mark in the last game. However, recent reports have confirmed that the English international has avoided any ligament damage in his ankle.
Daniel James will start the game over on the right flank, looking for opportunities to stretch the attack using his pace and directness whenever possible.
Donny van de Beek will have to settle for a place on the bench but might be called upon in the latter stages of the game if needed.
Attack
Mason Greenwood will lead Manchester United’s attack up top on Thursday. The Englishman’s adept movement in front of the goal can be utilized as an asset against Pioli’s side.
Veteran striker Edinson Cavani remains a doubt ahead of the clash.
