Manchester United face their first away trip of the 2023/24 campaign on Saturday when they face Tottenham Hotspur in the capital.
The Red Devils started the new term with an unconvincing 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night, with Raphael Varane scoring the only goal of the game. But the disappointing display will give Erik ten Hag plenty to consider before the Spurs clash.
United were completely overrun in midfield against Wolves, as Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes repeatedly pushed up and left Casemiro exposed. With Yves Bissouma and James Maddison seeing a lot of the ball in central areas against Brentford last week, Ten Hag may need to consider a different approach for Saturday’s match, either in personnel or tactics.
Likewise, United were toothless in the offensive areas on Monday, and Antony, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho had underwhelming games. Jadon Sancho was the brightest attacker against Wolves, despite only being introduced after 68 minutes, and the 23-year-old could be handed a starting berth in North London. But Rasmus Hojlund’s injury and Anthony Martial’s lack of match fitness does limit Ten Hag’s options in the attacking positions.
Hojlund joins Tom Heaton, Tyrell Malacia, Kobbie Mainoo and Amad on the sidelines, although Lisandro Martinez is expected to be involved at the weekend. The World Cup winner was replaced at the interval on Monday with a knock, but should be back in time for the trip to Tottenham.
With all that in mind, here’s how United could line up on Saturday…
1. GK: Andre Onana
Played well in his debut on Monday, despite that late error which should have resulted in a penalty.
2. RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Was perhaps United’s best player against Wolves, and the no.29 has established himself as first choice ahead of Diogo Dalot.
3. CB: Raphael Varane
Scored the crucial goal on Monday, just Varane’s second for United.
4. CB: Lisandro Martinez
Expected to be fit, and could have an interesting battle up against Richarlison.