Manchester United are aiming for a surprise result against league leaders and arch-rivals Liverpool in the Premier League this Sunday.
The Red Devils are under enormous pressure heading into Anfield after four straight defeats, with Ruben Amorim unable to make any positive changes in his first six weeks on the sidelines. A visit to the red half of Merseyside is the last thing the Portuguese coach needs to change Man Utd’s fortunes.
Injuries can no longer be blamed for the Red Devils’ poor form and performances, and Amorim still seems unsure about which starting lineup he will be best in. The former Sporting CP coach may not want to experiment with his side at Anfield amid fears of a possible defeat.
This is how Man Utd could line up this weekend.
TW: Andre Onana – Onana, who regained his strength at the start of the campaign, has, much like most of his teammates, returned to an unconvincing and uncertain wreck in recent weeks. He’s guaranteed to have a lot to do this weekend when it comes to the division’s most dangerous striker.
CB: Matthijs de Ligt – De Ligt made his first start for Man Utd in the second leg and performed largely poorly in the 3-0 home defeat. Things haven’t improved for the Dutchman, who could hardly cut a more contrasting figure than his compatriot Virgil van Dijk at the moment.
CB: Harry Maguire – Man Utd have moved to extend Maguire’s contract as they look for leadership qualities and the burly defender will provide some authority in defense on Sunday. He will be kept on his toes by the tireless Luis Diaz, whose pace and quick feet can cause serious problems.
CB: Lisandro Martinez – Martinez’s small stature has proven to be a problem in recent weeks, with the Argentinean being bullied by Joelinton as Newcastle United doubled their lead at Old Trafford last Monday.
RM: Noussair Mazraoui – Anthony Gordon didn’t offer the Moroccan a break last time out and Cody Gakpo will pose a similarly tough challenge for the summer recruit. It could be a long afternoon at Anfield.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo – Mainoo was the man who replaced Joshua Zirkzee after just 33 minutes against Newcastle and the midfielder offered at least a little more protection than his teammates.
CM: Manuel Ugarte – The Uruguayan’s tenacity and courage will be crucial against Liverpool, with Man Utd likely to be under constant pressure. He is returning from a one-match suspension which saw him miss the defeat to Newcastle.
LM: Diogo Dalot – One of the few good players against Newcastle as he played from the lesser known left side. However, a battle with the league’s most in-form player, Mohamed Salah, will be a completely different matter.
RF: Amad Diallo – The Ivorian was one of the few bright spots in a dark season for the Red Devils and provided the defining moment in the FA Cup clash between the two sides last season.
ST: Rasmus Hojlund – After showing signs of life at the start of Amorim’s tenure, Hojlund has now gone five games without a goal. The strong Danish international must offer more to Man Utd’s failing front line.
LF: Bruno Fernandes – Fernandes hasn’t been immune to criticism this season and a third red card this season didn’t help his side against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The captain missed the heavy defeat against Newcastle last time out due to suspension.