Erik ten Hag is facing a defensive dilemma ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League tie against Barcelona on Thursday.
The Red Devils head to Catalonia for the first leg of their knockout double header with Xavi’s side and the aggregate winner will progress to the last-16 of the competition. But United will travel without Lisandro Martinez due to the Argentinian’s suspension.
The defender picked up three bookings in the group stages and has therefore been handed a one-game ban. In his absence, Erik ten Hag could turn to centre-backs Harry Maguire or Victor Lindelof, however left-back Luke Shaw looks most likely to shuffle across and start at the heart of defence.
The England international has played there a number of times this season, including on Sunday at Elland Road. Should Shaw start alongside Raphael Varane at centre-back, Tyrell Malacia is expected to play on the left-hand side of a back four. On the opposite wing, Ten Hag will have to choose between the offensive Diogo Dalot or the more defensively competent Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
In midfield, Marcel Sabitzer also has a one-game suspension and won’t be involved at the Nou Camp, although Casemiro is likely to replace him in the team as his three-match ban only applies to Premier League matches.
In the attacking areas, it’s likely to be Jadon Sancho or Alejandro Garnacho on the wing. Ten Hag also must decide whether to play Wout Weghorst in the no.10 role, or as a natural striker. The on-loan forward’s position will have an impact on where Bruno Fernandes and Marcus line up.
Here’s the side we think Ten Hag will play with…
1. GK: David de Gea
Played all six Europa League matches this season and expected to start again.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Ten Hag could go for Wan-Bissaka but is more likely to stick with Dalot at right-back.
3. CB: Raphael Varane
Rested at the weekend, presumably with Thursday’s game in mind.
4. CB: Luke Shaw
Will probably play alongside Varane, meaning Maguire and Lindelof remain on the bench.