Manchester United face AZ Alkmaar in the final group stage game of the Europa League, and considering both teams have already qualified for the knockout stages of the tournament, we could expect them to field their second-string sides.
United head into this game high on confidence after getting two very good wins against Tottenham and Manchester City, but could keep one eye on Everton, who they face on Sunday.
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could give starts to youngsters, as well as those who haven’t got much playing time lately.
Manchester United Team News
The likes of Paul Pogba, Eric Bailly, Diogo Dalot, and Timothy Fosu-Mensah will miss the game owing to their long-term injuries.
Nemanja Matic could return to the United squad, while Marcos Rojo is another option as well. We could see quite a few of United’s U23 players – some of whom who played against Astana last time around – return to the squad as well.
Let’s take a look at the possible Manchester United lineup for the game against AZ Alkmaar:
Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs AZ Alkmaar
Goalkeeper
Sergio Romero, who has been United’s ‘keeper in cup competitions. should return to the Manchester United lineup, and replace David de Gea.
Defence
If Marcos Rojo is fit, he will go straight into the Manchester United team, playing as one of the two centre-backs.
Axel Tuanzebe was a late substitute in the win against City, and he will probably get a start at the back. Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof, United’s two first-choice centre-backs, will most likely be rested for this game. Di’Shon Bernard and Max Taylor could be other options at centre-back.
Brandon Williams should return to the Manchester United lineup at left-back, while Ashley Young could start at right-back. Ethan Laird is another option for Solskjaer in that position.
Midfield
James Garner played half of United’s U23 game this past week, which means that he will be involved in the Europa League game.
His midfield partner in the game against Astana, Dylan Levitt, wasn’t involved in that game, which means he could start in midfield.
Matic could get a start if he’s fit enough, while Fred and Scott McTominay will be rested. Juan Mata could be recalled to play in the No. 10 role in the Manchester United lineup.
Attack
Mason Greenwood should start as the centre-forward for United, while Andreas Pereira could start on the right.
Tahith Chong is an option for Solskjaer on the right, while Angel Gomes could play on the left.
