Erik ten Hag is ready to ring the changes as Manchester United look to bounce back from their humbling defeat by Liverpool against Real Betis in the Europa League.
Alongside the Englishman, Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw may complete the back four despite their abject performances on Merseyside. Ten Hag remains without the services of injured trio Christian Eriksen, Donny van de Beek and Marcel Sabitzer, so his options in midfield are limited.
Brazilian duo Casemiro and Fred formed the double-pivot against Liverpool but only the former is expected to keep his spot, with Scott McTominay coming into the side for the latter. Ten Hag’s changes may be most evident in attack, where half of the quartet that started against Liverpool could make way for a fresh injection of impetus.
Bruno Fernandes – despite all of the criticism aimed at him in recent days – and Marcus Rashford are likely to keep their spots in the starting XI. Wout Weghorst and Antony may not be so fortunate, with Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho pushing for recalls against the Spanish club, who sit fifth in the La Liga table after holding defending champions Real Madrid to a goalless draw last weekend.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Ten Hag confirmed striker Anthony Martial is still building fitness after a hip issue, which was the latest in a long string of injuries. Elsewhere, Sabitzer, who is on loan from Bayern Munich, is unavailable due to a knock but could return ahead of Sunday’s Premier League fixture with Southampton.
We have a strong programme,” Ten Hag told MUTV. “But I think we are quite good. The only disappointment is Marcel Sabitzer is not available, as well as Anthony Martial. Anthony Martial is back on the pitch, so we will see. For the rest, everyone is available and we are ready for the game.”
Manchester United predicted XI to face Real Betis (4-2-3-1): De Gea; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, McTominay; Sancho, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford.
Real Betis predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Rui Silva; Sabaly, Luiz Felipe, Edgar, Miranda; Carvalho, Rodriguez; Henrique, Canales, Juanmi; Willian Jose.