Manchester United return to competitive action after the World Cup with a Carabao Cup fourth round tie against Burnley at Old Trafford tonight.
The Red Devils have not had the ideal preparation for the game, having failed to win any of their winter friendlies. They lost to Cadiz and Real Betis before drawing against Everton.
Despite this, manager Erik ten Hag will expect a strong performance from his side. The majority of the XI could be made out of players, who travelled to Spain for the mid-season camp.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Predicted Line-up:
David de Gea has been ever-present in United’s goal this season. He only missed the Carabao Cup third round win over Aston Villa where Martin Dubravka made his debut. We expect the former to start tonight after a prolonged break due to the World Cup.
With Diogo Dalot carrying a suspected hamstring injury, Aaron Wan-Bissaka looks on course to make his first competitive start of the season under Ten Hag. On the opposite end, Tyrell Malacia could get the nod over Luke Shaw after being an unused substitute throughout Netherlands’ World Cup campaign.
Teden Mengi had a brilliance chance to partner Victor Lindelof in central defence, but he is now on the sidelines with another injury. In his absence, Ten Hag could start Harry Maguire after just one training session. Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez are only expected to join the squad next week.
In midfield, Scott McTominay looks set to play in the holding role ahead of Casemiro, having been involved in the winter training camp. He could be partnered by Christian Eriksen, who should be ready for the Cup tie. Denmark were eliminated from the World Cup during the group stages.
Donny van de Beek has been unconvincing whenever he has played for United this term and it could be time for Zidane Iqbal to make his full United debut. We are backing the club graduate to start in the number 10 role. Bruno Fernandes, who is just back in training, could feature off the bench.
Elsewhere, Alejandro Garnacho and Anthony Elanga should be assured starters out wide with better preparation. Garnacho was sensational for United before the World Cup break with four goal contributions in as many outings including a dramatic last-minute winner at Fulham.
Anthony Martial is expected to lead the line. The Frenchman has had an injury-plagued season but has still impressed with six goal involvements in just seven appearances. He needs to stay unscathed over the coming months to secure his spot, considering United are eyeing a new striker.
How Man Utd could line up against Burnley