It has been a mixed run so far for Manchester United across competitions, but they have built some momentum following a 6-3 humiliation against ‘noisy neighbours’ Manchester City a month ago. The Red Devils are unbeaten ever since and their current winning streak might get extended to four games at Villa Park on Sunday afternoon.
Aston Villa relieved Steven Gerrard from his managerial duties and appointed Unai Emery as the new chief. It will be the Spaniard’s first game in charge upon his return to the Premier League following a bittersweet experience with Arsenal, however, an immediate impact seems unlikely given United’s current run of form under the tutelage of Erik ten Hag.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Manchester United Lineup To Face Aston Villa
Defence
David de Gea is back to his best with some stellar saves in recent games. His distribution and outing have often been criticized, but the Spaniard holds a majestic shot-stopping ability that makes him irreplaceable in the United goal.
Raphael Varane’s absence is a major blow for the Red Devils who remains an injury doubt for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez must be lined up in the heart of the backline with the latter being a revelation since his summer move from Ajax. Diogo Dalot has been exquisite as a right fullback, and therefore, should keep his place alongside Luke Shaw down the other flank.
Midfield
Manchester United have been spot-on this summer in terms of transfer business. Both Christian Eriksen and Casemiro have been sublime in the centre of the pitch and the veteran pair must form a double pivot deep down the midfield. They would marshall the defence, break opponents’ game and script attacking transitions with relentless runs and passes. Fred and Scott McTominay could be involved in the second half based on how things shape up for the Premier League hotshots.
Meanwhile, there are a few fitness doubts high up the pitch as the likes of Antony, Anthony Martial and Jadon Sancho are still recovering from their respective injuries. Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga must be recalled unless the trio fail to recover in time for the weekend trip.
Bruno Fernandes is suspended for picking up 5 yellow cards and the gaffer might rely on Donny van de Beek as a ‘number 10’ in the Portuguese’s absence. The Dutchman must be desperate to prove his worth after rare appearances since his Old Trafford transfer. Teenage sensation Alejandro Garnacho scored a spectacular goal on Thursday night in their 1-0 victory against Real Sociedad and it remains to be seen whether the youngster gets some minutes at Villa Park.
Attack
Cristiano Ronaldo could spearhead the attack, but we might see Martial come back among the substitutes after resuming team training this week, as revealed by MEN.
