United’s record has plummeted since September, with both previous manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and current interim manager Ralf Rangnick unable to get the best out of his players.
The 13-time Premier League winners are currently fighting for a top-four finish. And Express Sport looks at four players who should be rested for Saturday’s game against Tottenham.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
United labored down their right side and was susceptible every time City attacked over the weekend.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka has just recently fought his way back into Rangnick’s plans after an extended absence.
However, he felt helpless at times when the Citizens attack brought him a slew of issues. Rangnick may also choose to reintroduce Diogo Dalot to his lineup.
Harry Maguire
Harry Maguire has been chastised for his poor form this season, and he sat out his side’s 0-0 draw with Watford at the end of last month.
The Red Devils are expected to recruit a world-class center-back this summer, and the former Leicester City star’s time at Old Trafford may be coming to an end.
This season, Maguire has failed to provide United with the presence in the center of their backline that they require.
Former Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane, who missed the City game due to COVID-19, might replace the England international.
Paul Pogba,
Paul Pogba wasn’t terrible against Pep Guardiola’s team, but United needs to play a more offensive approach against Spurs in front of their home fans.
As a result, Pogba may be a superfluous presence in the middle of the field.
Against the Citizens, Jadon Sancho and Anthony Elanga shone at moments. And if Cristiano Ronaldo replaced Pogba and led the line, the Red Devils may pose a greater danger in the future.
Alex Telles,
Since Rangnick came over, Alex Telles has shared left-back responsibilities with Luke Shaw.
After Shaw was ruled out with COVID-19, the Brazilian international was handed the nod for the match against City.
However, he failed to keep up with City’s persistent offensive approach, as United shipped goal after goal.
Rangnick believes Shaw is one of just two United players who can regularly overcome adversity, according to ESPN.
As a result, the England defender might be reinstated for the Spurs’ visit.
