Manchester United began their 2024-25 campaign with a loss on Saturday, falling to Manchester City on penalties in the Community Shield. United had been in a strong position to win the season’s traditional curtain-raiser twice—first in regular time, when Alejandro Garnacho’s brilliant effort gave them a late lead, and then again in the shoot-out, when Bernardo Silva missed City’s second penalty, giving the Red Devils the advantage.
Despite the disappointing result, Erik ten Hag will likely draw positives from his team’s performance, especially after a 2023-24 season in which United faced heavy criticism for their playing style and overall struggles in the Premier League and Europe. As United prepare to kick off their Premier League campaign against Fulham on Friday, here’s how famous9ja believes Ten Hag should set up his side at Old Trafford.
Here’s the possible line-up
GOALKEEPER; Onana
Andre Onana’s distraction tactics during penalty shoot-outs have attracted significant attention in pre-season, showcasing his confidence as he heads into the new campaign. The Cameroonian goalkeeper has told United’s supporters to expect him to take plenty of risks this season, though most fans would prefer he avoids making any costly mistakes.
DEFENDER: Dalot, De Ligt, Martinez, Shaw
Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s imminent departure indicates that Diogo Dalot will likely be United’s first-choice right-back this season. Meanwhile, two former Ajax defenders could soon be paired together at centre-back. Lisandro Martinez joined Ajax the same summer Matthijs de Ligt left for Juventus, and now they are set to become teammates at Old Trafford, with De Ligt expected to arrive from Bayern Munich.
Luke Shaw, still recovering from an injury-riddled year, wasn’t ready to feature in the Community Shield. If he’s not fit to face Fulham, Martinez might shift to left-back, with Harry Maguire partnering De Ligt in the center of defense.
MIDFIELDER: Casemiro, Mainoo, Mount
Casemiro appeared leaner and sharper in the match against City, delivering a solid, if not flawless, performance. The Brazilian did lose possession cheaply in his own half several times but was effective in making progressive passes up the pitch. He is expected to start against Fulham, especially since United have not signed a new holding midfielder.Currently, Kobbie Mainoo is a key fixture for United, and Mason Mount is also likely to start in midfield. Bruno Fernandes is expected to play as a false nine due to Rasmus Hojlund’s injury and Joshua Zirkzee’s lack of appearances for his new club.
Currently, Kobbie Mainoo is a key fixture for United, and Mason Mount is also likely to start in midfield. Bruno Fernandes is expected to play as a false nine due to Rasmus Hojlund’s injury and Joshua Zirkzee’s lack of appearances for his new club.
ATTACKER; Amad, Garnacho, Fernandes
Marcus Rashford started against City, but Alejandro Garnacho is expected to return to the lineup in place of the England forward when United’s Premier League campaign begins. Garnacho, who made more appearances than any other outfield player for United last season, highlighted his significance with a standout performance at Wembley.
Opting to start Amad over Rashford would be a bold move, but it has its merits. Amad showed promise toward the end of last season and impressed with his vibrant display in the Community Shield. This season feels crucial for the Ivorian, and he deserves an opportunity to demonstrate his quality.