Manchester United go against Southampton as they welcome them to Old Trafford on Sunday, looking to secure all three points from this home encounter. The Red Devils recorded a splendid 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the first leg of the Europa League round of sixteen, so they should be in high spirits heading into this weekend’s match-up.
Erik ten Hag will probably opt for a 4-2-3-1 formation and is expected to make a few changes to the starting XI. Aaron Wan Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia could replace Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot in the backline while the rest of the match-day squad remains the same.
4-2-3-1 Manchester United Predicted XI Vs Southampton
Defence
David de Gea is expected to continue between the sticks for the upcoming clash. The Spanish shot-stopper would look to put up a strong performance after conceding one goal in his last outing.
Raphael Varane will continue alongside Lisandro Martinez as they form the customary centre-half partnership at the heart of United’s backline. Tyrell Malacia should start at the left-back position, whereas Aaron Wan-Bissaka will fill in on the other flank as the right-back.
Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot will take a spot on the bench to provide cover for the defensive positions.
Midfield
Casemiro is expected to start in the defensive midfield position, whereas Fred should keep his place as the central midfielder due to Marcel Sabitzer’s absence after picking up a knock.
Bruno Fernandes remains a sure-fire starter for Man United this weekend and it’ll be an understatement to say The Red Devils will be highly dependent on the Portugal international’s creative work if they wish to pick up the lead in the first leg.
Scott McTominay will have to settle for a place on the bench but could be brought on in the second half of the contest if needed.
Attack
Antony and Marcus Rashford will take up the wide positions, looking to cause a menace for the Betis defenders down the right and left-wing, respectively.
Wout Weghorst is expected to lead the line at Old Trafford for this contest. The English forward’s adept movement in front of the goal could cause a lot of trouble for the opposition defenders as he carries most of the goal-scoring burden for the Red Devils.
Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho could be brought off the bench as impact substitutes in the second forty-five minutes of the match.
