Manchester United are set to face Viktoria Plzen in their final Europa League group-stage match at the Doosan Arena on Thursday evening. With both teams' level on nine points in the standings, the Red Devils will be looking to secure a vital win to keep their hopes of automatic qualification for the Round of 16 alive.
Manager Ruben Amorim, whose side is reeling from back-to-back Premier League defeats against Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, is expected to make changes to his starting XI. The Portuguese tactician will likely rotate his squad to manage player fitness ahead of Sunday's highly anticipated Manchester derby.
In defense, Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazraoui, and Tyrell Malacia are pushing for recalls. The trio is expected to join Lisandro Martínez in a three-man backline, with André Onana retaining his place between the posts.
The midfield is likely to see Casemiro anchor the center alongside captain Bruno Fernandes. Tyrell Malacia and Antony are set to operate as wing-backs, providing both defensive cover and attacking width.
In attack, Mason Mount could start in a central role alongside Marcus Rashford, with Joshua Zirkzee likely leading the line. The Dutch forward has impressed in training and is expected to offer a physical presence in the final third.
Predicted Starting XI (3-4-2-1):
Goalkeeper: André Onana
Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez
Midfielders: Antony, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Tyrell Malacia
Attackers: Mason Mount, Marcus Rashford
Striker: Joshua Zirkzee.
With Viktoria Plzen unbeaten in the Europa League this season, Manchester United will need a strong performance to end their Czech hoodoo and secure their first European win on Czech soil. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:45 PM Nigerian time.
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