Predicted Manchester United line-up v Copenhagen for crucial clash in Denmark

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Manchester United are in Denmark to face Copenhagen tonight for an absolutely crucial Champions League game.

Get used to hearing variations of that phrase. Every game is a ‘must win’ after Manchester United lost the two opening games in the Champions League group stage.

But this one really is big. If Manchester United can beat Copenhagen tonight, and Galatasaray lose in Germany against Bayern Munich, we will move ahead of the Turks into second place, with two games remaining.

It won’t be easy though. Copenhagen 2023 are not Brondby 1998. In fact, their confident full-back Mitchel Diks even insists the hosts are favourites to win the game.

How will Manchester United line up

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana was one of the heroes of the first leg with an incredible injury-time penalty save. He is certain to start this game, as he has every single match.

Another of the key players in the last game, Harry Maguire will also start. He has now re-emerged as Manchester United’s most important defender, an unlikely turnaround.

The big question is who will partner him. Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane have all travelled. Given the Frenchman’s big game experience, we expect Raphael Varane to start.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka will continue at right-back after his successful return at the weekend, which saw him picked out for praise for his performance.

On the left, manager Erik ten Hag appears to prefer Diogo Dalot to Sergio Reguilon, and we expect this to continue.

The midfield will see United go for a combative approach with Scott McTominay and Sofyan Amrabat. This means Christian Eriksen will drop out of the starting line-up.

Another player who could be axed is Antony, which creates space for Mason Mount to feature, and he and Bruno Fernandes could rotate between a central role and the right wing.

This may mean no room for Facundo Pellistri, who is a very strong alternative for the right wing, after an impressive performance from the bench this week.

In attack Marcus Rashford will return for this big game, with Alejandro Garnacho dropping out, while Rasmus Hojlund will lead the line against his former club.