On Thursday night, Manchester United and FC Barcelona will square off at Old Trafford with the winner advancing to the UEFA Europa League quarterfinals. Following a 2-2 draw on Thursday, the clubs will enter this match with positive momentum.
Jadon Sancho is probably going to make his way into the starting eleven, thus Erik ten Hag will likely choose the 4-3-3 configuration with a few adjustments from the last game.
Manchester United’s Expected Lineup Against FC Barcelona’s Defense is a 4-3-3
During the upcoming match, David de Gea is anticipated to start in goal. On Thursday, the Spanish goalkeeper would like to put on a great showing and earn a clean sheet.
The right-center back position will be filled by Lisandro Martinez, with Raphael Varane slated to start at the center of United’s defense. Diogo Dalot will undoubtedly start as right back, but Luke Shaw will slot in as the left back on the other wing.
Midfield
Casemiro is anticipated to start in central midfield, with Fred moving to the defensive midfield position.
It would be an understatement to suggest that Bruno Fernandes is Manchester United’s lock to start this week, and the Red Devils will be heavily reliant on the Portugal international’s inventiveness if they hope to win on Thursday.
The game’s second half could see Marcel Sabitzer come on if necessary, but for now, he will have to make do with a spot on the bench.
Attack
Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford will occupy the wide positions and pose a threat to Xavi’s team on the left and right wings, respectively.
For Manchester United in midweek, Wout Weghorst is anticipated to be the line leader. The Barca defense, who has allowed just three goals in their past five games in all competitions, could have a difficult time handling the 30-year-old striker’s deft movement in front of goal.
In the second 45 minutes of the game, Alejandro Garnacho might be used as a crucial substitution off the bench.