4-3-3: Predicted Man United XI vs Bayern: Dalot dropped, 18-year-old to miss out again
As Manchester United gears up to host Bayern Munich in the crucial final match of the Champions League group stage, manager Erik ten Hag faces mounting pressure following a disheartening 3-0 loss to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
In anticipation of this pivotal clash, significant changes are expected in the United lineup, given their imperative need for a victory to maintain slim hopes of Champions League qualification.
Following the Bayern encounter, a challenging trip to Anfield awaits, amplifying the significance of this week for the former Ajax boss.
Here’s our envisioned starting XI for the upcoming battle against the Bundesliga champions.
Defence and Midfield:
- Goalkeeper: Andre Onana, who has shown improvement throughout the season.
- Central Defensive Pairing: Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, with Raphael Varane available but likely not starting due to Victor Lindelof’s uncertain fitness.
- Fullbacks: Sergio Reguilon on the left and Aaron Wan-Bissaka on the right, tasked with handling Bayern’s attacking threat.
Midfield:
- Crucial Decision: Sofyan Amrabat and Kobbie Mainoo ideally as the midfield pair, supported by Bruno Fernandes in a more advanced role. However, historical patterns suggest Scott McTominay might start alongside Fernandes.
Forward Line:
- Striker: Rasmus Hojlund, who, despite recent bench appearances, should reclaim his spot given his goal-scoring prowess in this competition.
- Wingers: Alejandro Garnacho to retain his place, while the right-wing position could see Uruguayan Facundo Pellistri making a compelling case for inclusion. Antony’s performance against Bournemouth was decent, but Ten Hag might opt for Pellistri’s unpredictability.
- Marcus Rashford’s availability hinges on a late fitness test, adding an element of uncertainty to the forward line.
Manchester United’s Predicted XI:
Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Shaw, Reguilon; Amrabat, McTominay, Fernandes; Pellistri, Hojlund, Garnacho.
