Ruben Amorim will have to find some tactical solutions soon with Manchester United set to be without several key players over the festive period.
Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will all miss at least three matches due to their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, while those who reached the final four of the tournament could miss as many as seven United games.
Amorim might also have to cope without the injured Benjamin Sesko, though club sources are confident his knee injury is not a 'major' issue and he shouldn't be sidelined for too long.
It doesn't mean United won't be without the quartet at some point though and here is how we think United should line up if they are all unavailable.
5. CB - Lisandro Martinez
Martinez should be up to full match fitness over the festive period and could claim his starting role back. | Manchester United via Getty Images
6. RWB - Diogo Dalot
Dalot will have to play at right wing-back when Amad Diallo is away. | Manchester United via Getty Images
7. CM - Casemiro
Casemiro remains irreplaceable in central midfield and there is no plan to cope without him. | Getty Images
8. CM - Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo should get the chance he has been craving due to the absences during AFCON. | Manchester United via Getty Images