Mainoo and Zirkzee start: The new Manchester United line up Ruben Amorim could soon unleash - gallery

Man Utd will be without a few key players during the festive period and this is one way they could line up.

Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee could both finally get their chance in the Manchester United starting line up over the festive period.

The duo are both unhappy with their lack of playing time this season and are both interested in potential January loan exits. United aren't so keen. They insist the pair both have a key role to play in this campaign, and sources have reiterated it would only take one injury or suspension for either of them to be promoted to a starting position.

That could come next month when Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui head to the Africa Cup of Nations, while Benjamin Sesko could still be sidelined due to his recent knee injury. United hope Sesko will be back before the trio depart on international duty, though there is a slim chance United could be without all four of them at some stage before the end of the year.

It means Amorim might well have to experiment with his starting line up and there is one way they could line up with both Mainoo and Zirkzee in the side.

Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice