Manchester United, in spite of a dreadful start, are slowly turning their season around banking on a couple of encouraging league outings against Newcastle United and Chelsea. But Jose Mourinho’s men are expecting a fierce fight on Tuesday night when they host Juventus at Old Trafford in a Champions League group stage encounter. This fixture will be fascinating due to iconic Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to his former club. However, both the teams would be eyeing a victory, and the game is tipped to be an exciting one when these two European heavyweights lock horns at the Theatre of Dreams.
The Red Devils have won their last three meetings with Juventus in all competitions including their previous Champions League ties back in 2002-03 where United won 2-1 at home and 3-0 away. Jose Mourinho’s men, although vulnerable at the back in Premier League, are yet to concede in Europe and would look to keep up their good work against an in-form, star-studded and high-profile opponent.
Team News
United have a few injury concerns with Jesse Lingard and Scott McTominay remaining doubtful with their respective groin and knee injuries. Marouane Fellaini is still recovering from a groin strain whereas Diogo Dalot missed out the Chelsea trip with a knock. Marcos Rojo is back in training and likely to be reintegrated with the squad in coming weeks.
Formation
Mourinho tried out several set-ups but seems to have found stability in a 4-3-3 that has earned him some success of late. The Portuguese tactician is likely to retain the same but expected to be more defensively inclined against Massimiliano Allegri’s men.
Defence
The towering presence of David de Gea between the sticks is a massive edge for the Devils who would be protected by a ‘back four’ that has often been vulnerable. Skipper Antonio Valencia seems to have lost his place, and versatile Ashley Young is expected to feature as a right fullback similar to the Chelsea game.
Chris Smalling has earned a regular start in recent weeks whereas Eric Bailly might replace Victor Lindelof to partner the Englishman in central defence. Luke Shaw has signed a new long-term deal following some astounding display and would like to keep up the good work from his usual left-back slot.
Midfield
Nemanja Matic had a decent time on the pitch upon returning to Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon and must maintain the shape in the middle of the park versus the Old Lady. Paul Pogba would be having added responsibility against his former club whereas Ander Herrara should be handed a start in place of compatriot Juan Mata for his work rate and destructive approach. The likes of Fred, Mata and Fellaini might be introduced later on based on the mood of the game.
Attack
A brace against Chelsea must have cemented Anthony Martial’s place in the starting XI ahead of Alexis Sanchez down the left flank. Romelu Lukaku has not found the net in a while but will keep his position as the frontman. Young Marcus Rashford is in decent form for both club and country, and so expected to keep his place on the right flank unless Jesse Lingard recovers on time.
