19yo starts, 2 big changes | Expected Man Utd line-up (3-4-2-1) vs Arsenal, Amorim makes Onana decision
Manchester United will be aiming to return to winning ways in today’s FA Cup third-round tie at Arsenal.
The Red Devils have had a poor league campaign with just 23 points from 20 games, but they produced one of their best displays against Liverpool last weekend.
United outplayed the table-toppers in the second half at Anfield. Harry Maguire almost scored a dramatic late winner with the final kick of the game.
Manager Ruben Amorim will want a similar showing at the Emirates Stadium today as United aim to defend the FA Cup.
Formation: 3-4-2-1
Predicted Man Utd line-up vs Arsenal
Amorim has already confirmed that Altay Bayindir will start ahead of regular goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The Turkey international made two high-profile errors in the 4-3 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup quarter-final. He faces another big challenge in London.
Arsenal are one of the best in the business from corners and set-pieces. Bayindir must command the box with high claims to ease the pressure on the United backline.
There will be a solitary change in the three-man central defence. Matthijs de Ligt had a good opening half at Anfield, but things went pear-shaped for him after the break.
Cody Gakpo was gifted room to shoot after De Ligt’s poor sliding challenge. The Netherlands international also conceded a penalty after handling the ball in the box.
The Dutchman will make way for Leny Yoro on the right side of the back three. The 19-year-old was a late substitute against the Reds. He made a stunning tackle on Darwin Nunez.
Harry Maguire had one of his best games of the season at Anfield. He would have had the perfect conclusion had he scored with the clear-cut opportunity in the dying seconds.
The former captain should start in the middle of central defence with Lisandro Martinez on the left.
Martinez has been inconsistent this term but stepped up in the derby with a fantastic opening goal.
Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot are expected to continue in the wing-back positions.
Manuel Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo should start in the heart of United’s midfield.
Bruno Fernandes is poised to continue alongside Amad Diallo in the attacking midfield positions.
Diallo has shown that he has the big-game potential with goals against Manchester City and Liverpool.
The Ivorian has just signed a new long-term deal and will be eager to score at the Emirates Stadium.
Rasmus Hojlund missed a glorious goalscoring chance at Anfield. He should still continue up front ahead of Joshua Zirkzee, who has failed to meet expectations since his summer move.
How Man Utd could line up vs Arsenal
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
Article written by Sri Aswin .