Manchester United kick off this season’s Europa League campaign tonight at Old Trafford against Real Sociedad.
While important to begin with a victory and set a positive tone for the rest of the group stage, United are expected to rotate.
Manager Erik ten Hag has only made two changes to the starting line-up across the past four Premier League matchdays, meaning there are several players in need of a rest, and others who have not had enough game time.
United also have a tricky Premier League away game on Sunday against Crystal Palace, so selection will have to factor this in too.
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Predicted Manchester United XI v Real Sociedad
The selection process is complicated a little by apparent injuries to Luke Shaw and Donny van de Beek. Both players missed training on Wednesday and are unlikely to feature.
This removes options to rotate at left-back and in midfield, but it may also help Ten Hag, preventing him from making too many changes.
Goalkeeper and defence: In total we expect seven changes, with new goalkeeper Martin Dubravka coming in to make his debut, standing in for David de Gea.
A familiar centre-back pairing is also likely to come in, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof replacing Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, who will be saved for Sunday.
Tyrell Malacia will continue at left-back due to Shaw’s injury, and we would also anticipate Diogo Dalot keeping his place too, with Ten Hag reluctant to give Wan-Bissaka game time in pre-season.
Midfield and attack: New signing Casemiro is expected to start his first Manchester United game, and he will likely link up with Brazil teammate Fred.
The third spot will go to Bruno Fernandes, although it will be Harry Maguire wearing the captain’s armband for this one.
Cristiano Ronaldo will lead the line in attack, with Anthony Elanga and new signing Antony up front alongside him.
Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho both need resting, while youngster Alejandro Garnacho will be in consideration and should get minutes off the bench.
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