Manchester United will need to keep things tight and organised at the Wanda Metropolitano on Wednesday when they face Atletico Madrid.
The Red Devils head to the Spanish capital for the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash knowing the type of opponent they’ll face.
Atletico are experienced at this stage of the competition and eliminated Liverpool in the last-16 two years ago.
Ralf Rangnick also spoke about the ‘hostile reception’ his players will receive from the home crowd, while adding they would not be received with a ‘red carpet’.
The German is also looking forward to facing Diego Simeone for the first time in his career and described his opposite number as ‘perhaps the most emotional manager in Europe’ during Tuesday’s press conference.
It’s for these reasons that Rangnick’s team selection is even more important, and he’ll need to select a side ready to battle.
His two big selection dilemmas come in midfield - whether to stick with Paul Pogba or start Fred - and on the wing, where Jesse Lingard almost certainly won’t start again after a poor performance at Elland Road.
But the interim United manager also has tough choices to make at the heart of defence and right-back. We have a look at which starting XI he might pick against Atletico…
5. Luke Shaw
Offers a more dependable defensive option than Alex Telles, while the Brazilian hasn’t started since 22 January.
6. Scott McTominay
Wasn’t pictured arriving at the airport which led to speculation online that the 25-year-old hasn’t travelled. Assuming he’s fit, McTominay is a must against the physical Atletico midfielder.
7. Fred
This is Rangnick’s biggest decision, whether to reinstate Fred or stick with Paul Pogba. We think he’ll start the former, given Pogba’s lack of defensive work rate.
8. Bruno Fernandes
Has found some decent form of late and his selection as the press conference player would indicate he’ll be in the starting XI.