As Manchester United prepares to face Chelsea in a Premier League clash on Sunday, interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy is expected to field a strong lineup at Old Trafford.
Van Nistelrooy, who has overseen a recent 5-2 win over Leicester, will aim to maintain momentum as he leads the team before incoming manager Ruben Amorim takes charge.
Van Nistelrooy's lineup is likely to be familiar to fans, focusing on a balanced combination of defense, experience, and youth. In goal, Andre Onana is set to continue as United's first-choice keeper, having delivered consistent performances. The back four will likely feature Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, and Noussair Mazraoui. Martinez, who shifted to center-back to accommodate Mazraoui, will be pivotal in strengthening United's defense, especially given Chelsea's attacking potential.
In midfield, United's double pivot of Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte is expected to provide both defensive coverage and ball control. Casemiro's experience and Ugarte's athleticism make them an ideal pairing to disrupt Chelsea's quick transitions and counter-attacks. Ahead of them, Bruno Fernandes will lead the attack from a central role, looking to connect play between midfield and the forward line.
Van Nistelrooy faces a key decision in his front line, where Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund are set to start. Rashford's pace and Garnacho's agility on the wings will be essential in stretching Chelsea's defense, while Hojlund, who is expected to replace Joshua Zirkzee, will aim to capitalize on chances in the box. The young forward has shown flashes of his potential, and this match provides a platform for him to make an impact against top-tier opposition.
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