Manchester United are currently on a mid-season break due to the ongoing 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The tournament will end on 18 December, with several of the club’s players representing their countries in the Middle East. The Red Devils will prepare for their return to club football by facing Cadiz and Real Betis in friendly matches on 7 and 10 December and December. Erik ten Hag’s team will then take on Burnley in the fourth round of the League Cup just three days after the World Cup final.
United’s friendly matches against Cadiz and Betis will likely see them field a team made up of the players who weren’t selected to represent their nations at the World Cup as well as those individuals whose countries didn’t qualify for the competition. Jadon Sancho, David De Gea and Anthony Martial are notable names who should be in the mix.
The friendly games will allow Ten Hag to assess those not in Qatar ahead of the January transfer window. Several of the club’s fringe players will likely feature and solid performances against the La Liga opposition could lead to them remaining at Old Trafford come the end of the season.
Elsewhere, the Red Devils have been linked with a handful of players ahead of the upcoming transfer window, most notably Cody Gakpo. The Dutch international has performed well for his nation at the World Cup, scoring three times. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, United ‘remain’ in contact with the PSV forward’s representatives. Gakpo has been a standout performer for his club this campaign, netting 13 goals in 24 appearances, while providing 17 assists.
“There are no direct negotiations yet, but the reality is Manchester United are still in contact with the agents of Cody Gakpo,” Romano said on his YouTube channel. “They have new contacts, a plan to have new discussions with the agents, the relationship is fantastic.”
It’s not a surprise Ten Hag is reportedly a fan of Gakpo. The 23-year-old can play in any of the front three positions and has shown why he would be a brilliant option to compete for a spot in the Red Devils’ starting XI.
With that being said, we take a look at how United could line up if Gakpo joins the club during the winter window.
1. Goalkeeper - David De Gea
The Spanish shot-stopper is set to remain United’s no.1 after the winter window.
2. Right-back - Diogo Dalot
The 23-year-old has been one of United’s best performers this season and is likely to remain their first choice right-back.
3. Centre-back - Raphael Varane
If he can remain injury-free, the Frenchman is expected to play a pivotal part in United’s team this season.
4. Centre-back - Lisandro Martinez
The centre-back has made a huge impact on United’s defensive displays this season and is expected to remain one of the first names on the teamsheet.