Manchester United head into a crucial Premier League clash against Aston Villa this weekend with much at stake. After a series of disappointing results, manager Erik ten Hag is under significant pressure to turn things around. The Red Devils have endured a turbulent season so far, and another loss could potentially mark the end of Ten Hag’s tenure at the club. Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, have been in formidable form, and Manchester United will need to produce a performance of the highest caliber to come away with a positive result.
The spotlight is firmly on Ten Hag, who faces a tough challenge with several key players dealing with injuries, particularly in defense and midfield. However, a piece of positive news for the team is the availability of captain Bruno Fernandes, who had his suspension overturned after receiving a red card in the previous match. Fernandes will be a crucial figure as United look to steady the ship and gain much-needed momentum heading into the international break.
With the pressure mounting, Ten Hag will need to get his team selection spot on for what is a must-win game. Manchester United have struggled to find consistency this season, and the balance of their squad has often seemed off, particularly in midfield and defense. With injuries affecting several positions, Ten Hag’s choices will be under close scrutiny. Here is a look at how Manchester United might line up in their vital match against Aston Villa, using a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
Andre Onana has been one of the few bright spots in Manchester United’s squad during their recent rough patch. While the Cameroonian goalkeeper faced heavy criticism during the previous season, his form this time around has been more assured. Onana’s shot-stopping ability will be crucial as Villa’s attack, led by the likes of Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby, promises to be relentless. Despite the team’s defensive issues, Onana has often escaped criticism due to his individual performances, and he will likely be busy in this encounter. If United are to avoid another defeat, Onana will need to be at his best to keep Villa’s attackers at bay.
Right-back: Noussair Mazraoui
Noussair Mazraoui has had a mixed start to his Manchester United career. The Moroccan full-back initially impressed after joining the club, but his performances have dipped in recent games, notably against Tottenham Hotspur and Porto. As a result, Mazraoui will be looking to bounce back with a strong performance at Villa Park. Known for his attacking capabilities as well as his defensive work, Mazraoui will need to be disciplined against Villa’s wingers, who can cause problems with their pace and directness. Ten Hag will hope that Mazraoui can rediscover his form and provide stability on the right side of the defense.
Centre-back: Harry Maguire
Harry Maguire’s situation at Manchester United has been a point of discussion for some time. After being left out of the latest England squad, Maguire made a statement by scoring a crucial late equalizer in the midweek match against Porto. His confidence seems to have taken a slight boost, and this might see him replace the out-of-form Matthijs de Ligt in the starting lineup. Maguire’s physicality and aerial ability could prove vital in dealing with Aston Villa’s threat from set-pieces and counter-attacks. With Ten Hag short on options in defense due to injuries, Maguire could play a key role in this fixture.
Centre-back: Lisandro Martinez
Despite being one of Manchester United’s most reliable defenders last season, Lisandro Martinez has endured a difficult campaign so far. Like his teammates, Martinez struggled in the 3-3 draw against Porto, and his performances have raised concerns. Nevertheless, the Argentine defender remains a crucial part of the backline, especially with limited alternatives available. Ten Hag will be hoping that Martinez can regain his composure and produce the kind of tenacious and commanding performance that made him a fan favorite last season. Martinez’s aggression and ball-playing ability will be needed to help United build from the back and cope with Villa’s high-intensity play.
Left-back: Diogo Dalot
Diogo Dalot has been deployed in an unfamiliar left-back role this season, and although it is not his natural position, the Portuguese defender has impressed in spells. Dalot’s versatility has been a valuable asset for Ten Hag, and he is expected to continue in this role against Aston Villa. Villa’s wide players are known for their pace and trickery, so Dalot will need to be alert and disciplined in his defensive duties. Additionally, Dalot’s ability to push forward and support the attack could help Manchester United stretch Villa’s defense and create opportunities in the final third.
Defensive Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo is one of the most exciting young prospects in Manchester United’s squad, and his presence in midfield has added a sense of dynamism and energy to the team. However, Mainoo missed the Porto game due to a slight injury issue, and his availability for the Villa match remains uncertain. Ten Hag has hinted that Mainoo could be rushed back into action due to the importance of the game. If he does start, Mainoo’s ability to break up play and transition the ball quickly could be key to disrupting Villa’s rhythm and allowing United to regain control in midfield. His youthful exuberance could be just what United need in what will be a fast-paced, high-stakes encounter.
Defensive Midfield: Christian Eriksen
Christian Eriksen has been one of the more consistent performers for Manchester United this season, and his recent form has been encouraging. The experienced Danish playmaker has contributed several assists, including two in the draw against Porto. Eriksen’s vision and ability to pick out key passes make him an important figure in United’s midfield, especially when transitioning from defense to attack. With both Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro struggling for form, Eriksen is expected to retain his place in the starting XI. His calmness on the ball and creativity will be crucial in breaking down Aston Villa’s well-organized defense.
Right-wing: Alejandro Garnacho
Alejandro Garnacho has been competing with Amad Diallo for a spot in Manchester United’s starting lineup this season. The young Argentine winger has shown flashes of his potential but has struggled to cement a regular starting role. After Diallo started in the midweek game against Porto, Garnacho may be given the opportunity to shine against Aston Villa. Garnacho’s direct running, dribbling ability, and willingness to take on defenders could pose a significant threat to Villa’s defense. Ten Hag will be hoping that Garnacho can provide the attacking spark that has often been missing from United’s recent performances.
Attacking Midfield: Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes has been at the center of Manchester United’s creativity for several seasons now, and his influence on the team cannot be overstated. After receiving a red card in the previous match against Tottenham Hotspur, Fernandes’ suspension was controversially overturned, meaning he is available for the Villa game. Fernandes’ leadership and vision will be vital as United look to create chances and control the tempo of the game. While his disciplinary record has raised some concerns, there is no denying Fernandes’ importance to the team. With United’s midfield struggling for consistency, Fernandes will need to step up and deliver a commanding performance in this crucial fixture.
Left-wing: Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford has had a rollercoaster of a season, and his performances have been inconsistent. Despite scoring a goal and providing an assist in the midweek match against Porto, Rashford was surprisingly substituted at half-time by Ten Hag, citing a lack of defensive contribution. This decision has raised eyebrows, as Rashford remains one of United’s most dangerous attacking outlets. The England international has the ability to change the course of a game with his pace and finishing ability, but his confidence seems to fluctuate. If Rashford can rediscover his form and play with more consistency, he could be the key to unlocking Aston Villa’s defense.
Striker: Rasmus Hojlund
Rasmus Hojlund’s return to the starting lineup on Thursday after a brief injury layoff will have been a relief for Manchester United fans. The Danish forward has been tipped as one of United’s brightest attacking prospects, and his goal-scoring ability will be crucial as the team seeks to find the back of the net more regularly. Hojlund opened his account for the season against Porto, and this boost in confidence could translate into a strong performance against Villa. With Joshua Zirkzee having failed to make an impact in recent weeks, Hojlund’s presence up front will be vital in United’s attacking play.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s lineup for the game against Aston Villa reflects a team that is searching for both form and stability. The combination of injuries, underperformance, and off-field pressure has made life difficult for Erik ten Hag, and this match could prove to be a pivotal moment in his reign as United manager.
