Manchester United could kick off their 2024/25 Premier League campaign with three exciting new faces in their starting XI. As the Red Devils prepare to face Fulham, manager Erik ten Hag might hand debuts to recent signings Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and Joshua Zirkzee.
With injuries and doubts surrounding several key defenders, Ten Hag may have little choice but to start De Ligt and Mazraoui, both of whom are currently undergoing medicals ahead of their transfers from Bayern Munich.
Despite not having a full pre-season, the Dutch duo could join Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot in a reshaped backline. De Ligt and Martinez, both Ajax graduates, could form a formidable centre-back partnership, while Mazraoui might slot in at right-back, with Dalot on the left.
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Up front, Zirkzee, who arrived from Bologna earlier in the summer, is also in contention for a starting spot. Although he missed out on a run in the Community Shield against Manchester City, Ten Hag might throw the young striker into the deep end, especially after United’s missed chances in that game. With Bruno Fernandes pulling the strings in midfield and wingers Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho in fine form, Zirkzee could be the missing piece in United’s attack.
The 2024/25 #PL season is calling 📞#MUFC pic.twitter.com/4fwD0owUa4
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 13, 2024
Man Utd predicted lineup: Ten Hag’s squad takes shape
This potential lineup highlights the transformation under Erik ten Hag. Only two players, Dalot and Fernandes, remain from the last United team before the Dutchman took charge. The squad is now very much a reflection of Ten Hag’s vision, blending youth, talent, and experience.
Even the bench looks strong, with options like Christian Eriksen, Marcus Rashford, Antony, and Mason Mount ready to make an impact. As key players like Luke Shaw, Rasmus Hojlund, and Harry Maguire edge closer to full fitness, Manchester United’s squad is beginning to look solid in all departments.
Man United predicted starting XI (4-2-3-1): Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martínez, Dalot; Casemiro, Mainoo; Diallo, Fernandes, Garnacho; Zirkzee.
