Manchester United might have won all their matches in pre-season, but the important thing there is that it was pre-season. This Saturday, the season kicks off for real as they take on Swansea City at Old Trafford. Not only does it mark the start of a new era on the touch line, it is also the first competitive test of Van Gaal’s new style of play that wowed USA during their pre-season tour. Will the Red Devils come out on top? How will they line up against the Welsh side? Here is a probable line up that looks likely to take to the field against the Welsh club.
If there was one bright light amidst the darkness and chaos that was last season, then it is none other than David De Gea. The Spanish shot-stopper was arguably the club’s best player last season and showed just why the club was right in splashing the cash on him. With Anders Lindegaard reportedly wanting out of the club, the Spaniard is unlikely to come under much pressure this season, but will still want to keep up the good work and start his campaign on a high.
One of the main problems facing the Red Devils in their bid to play their three-man defence is the lack of options at the back. The club start the season with just two fit senior defenders thanks to Jonny Evans’ injury. With Van Gaal likely to stick to his plan, Tyler Blackett, the young Mancunian centre back who impressed in USA is likely to make his debut for Manchester United against Swansea. Alongside him will be Chris Smalling and Phil Jones who will take their place as the central and right-sided centre backs. With Luke Shaw and Antonio Valencia, the side’s first-choice wing backs out injured, Van Gaal is likely to go with Ashley Young on the right flank, with young Reece James also set to make his League debut on the left side.
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The central midfield is one area that has been Manchester United’s Achilles heel over the past few years. While Michael Carrick’s injury was the last thing Van Gaal would’ve wanted, the acquisition of Ander Herrera and the return of Darren Fletcher to first-team action means that the problem isn’t as bad. Herrera and Fletcher impressed in USA and are likely to continue their partnership against Swansea as the double-pivot in front of the defence. In front of them Juan Mata is likely to start in his preferred No.10 role after being played on the wings under David Moyes. The Spaniard seemed to enjoy the freedom his role entitled in pre-season and will be looking to create and score a lot more than he did last time around.
If there is one area that the Red Devils are well stocked that is up front. Even though Robin Van Persie is unlikely to feature due to his World Cup exertions and Danny Welbeck is out injured, the Red Devils still have other options up top. Wayne Rooney will look to continue his good form from the USA and start this season from where he left off last time around. Welbeck’s injury means that Chicharito, who featured in the friendly against Valencia just a few days ago will partner Rooney in attack.
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