Manchester United Predicted Line-Up vs Arsenal
Manchester United will take on bitter rivals Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, in what could be a pivotal clash in shaping the Premier League table as the end approaches.
Jose Mourinho’s men sit in the fifth place, one point off the fourth position occupied by Manchester CIty whereas Arsenal are positioned in the sixth spot five points behind United with a game in hand. United come into the game on the back of a 1-0 victory over Celta Vigo in the first leg of the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League and are expected to field a much-changed side keeping in view the second leg clash on Thursday.
Team News
United have been provided by with several injury boosts as the likes of Eric Bailly and Chris Smalling returned to match action during midweek, while Phil Jones is also fit and available for selection. A new addition to the injury list though is utility man Ashley Young, who could be out for the season due to a hamstring problem.
Marcus Rashford was seen limping off the pitch in the midweek, but is expected to be fit. Luke Shaw, Marcos Rojo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic have already been ruled out till the end of the ongoing campaign. Marouane Fellaini is unavailable due to suspension.
Here is how United will take the field at the Emirates:
Probable Manchester United Starting XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Jose Mourinho
David De Gea (GK)
The Spaniard did not play in the midweek with Sergio Romero starting between the sticks. Expect De Gea to reclaim his spot on Sunday.
Antonio Valencia (RB)
With the loss of Ashley Young, Mourinho will not be able to rotate the full-backs for the game. That means Antonio Valencia will start at right-back against the Gunners.
Phil Jones (CB)
The Englishman is fit again and considering the amount of games Eric Bailly has played over the past month, it is likely that the Ivorian will be benched, with Jones expected to step in for him.
Chris Smalling (CB)
Another shuffle in the backline expected with Daley Blind to get some well-earned rest ahead of the semi-finals and Chris Smalling making a start after making a short cameo on Thursday night.
Matteo Darmian (LB)
With Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw and Ashley Young all unavailable, the Italian is another player who is unlikely to get a reprieve from the rigorous schedule.
Michael Carrick (CM)
The veteran midfielder did not feature at all on Thursday against Celta. Expect him to come in for the suspended Marouane Fellaini.
Paul Pogba (CM)
The world-record signing returned from injury in the midweek clash and put in a strong display. More of the same on the cards from the Frenchman.
Ander Herrera (CM)
The Spaniard has faded away slightly since the stellar performance against Chelsea last month. He will need to step it up a notch, if United are to return with a positive result.
Juan Mata (RW)
Another player who recently returned from injury, Mata could very well get his first game post the return in place of Jesse Lingard on the right-flank.
Wayne Rooney (ST)
The goal-scoring mantle will be taken up by captain Wayne Rooney who will come into the game well-rested after being benched for Thursday night.
Anthony Martial (LW)
The left-flank will be manned by the exciting but misfiring Anthony Martial. He seriously needs to deliver in the closing stages after what has been a poor season so far.