Manchester United will lock horns with Southampton at St. Mary’s on Saturday afternoon, hoping to pick up a positive result away from home. The Red Devils will be coming into the match on the back of a stunning 2-1 victory over Liverpool, whereas the Saints recorded a 3-0 win against Cambridge United in the second round of the EFL Cup.
Team News
‘Anthony Elanga was withdrawn for Martial [vs. Liverpool] but it’s thought this substitution was for tactical reasons.’ – Manchester United’s official website stated.
‘Victor Lindelof and Facundo Pellistri are United’s only two injury concerns as it stands. The Swede hasn’t been included in any of our matchday squads so far this season, while Ten Hag confirmed earlier this month that Pellistri will be missing until September.’
Erik Ten Hag will probably opt for the 4-3-3 formation with a few tweaks from the last game, as Casemiro will likely make his debut this weekend.
4-3-3 Predicted Manchester United Lineup Vs Southampton
Defence
David de Gea is expected to start between the sticks for the upcoming clash. The Spanish shot-stopper would look to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Saturday.
Raphael Varane is expected to start at the heart of United’s backline, with new signing Lisandro Martinez slotting into the right-centre back position. Diogo Dalot should start at the right-back position, whereas Tyrell Malacia will fill in on the other flank as the left-back.
Midfield
New signing Casemiro is expected to start in the defensive midfield position, whereas Bruno Fernandes will slot in as the attacking midfielder.
Christian Eriksen remains a sure-fire starter for Manchester United this week, and it’ll be an understatement to say The Red Devils will be highly dependent on the Denmark international’s creative work if they wish to pick up a win on Saturday.
Fred will have to settle for a place on the bench, but he could be brought on in the second half of the contest if needed.
Attack
Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford will take up the wide positions, causing menace for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men down the right and left-wing, respectively.
Anthony Martial is expected to lead the line for Manchester United this weekend. The France international’s adept movement in front of the goal could cause a lot of trouble for the Southampton defence that has conceded seven goals in their opening three league fixtures.
Cristiano Ronaldo could be brought off the bench as an impact substitute in the second forty-five minutes of the match.