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Strongest Manchester United starting XI to face Tottenham

Manchester United have had a busy transfer window so far with the addition of five new players as the side from Old Trafford looks to mount a serious title challenge.

While key positions including right back and central midfield have been addressed, the central defensive situation still needs some attention. And United could do with a Pedro-like player who can both score and provide goals up front.

Manchester United will look to kick start the season with a win over Spurs
Manchester United will look to kick start the season with a win over Spurs

Strongest Manchester United starting XI to face Tottenham

Tottenham were blown away in the early going at Old Trafford last season, but despite their dismal Old Trafford record, Spurs have the quality and depth in their squad to cause an upset on Saturday.

Here’s how Louis van Gaal’s side is expected to lineup against Tottenham.

Goalkeeper – David De Gea

David de Gea will start for MAnchester United amid his transfer rumours
David de Gea will start for Manchester United amid his transfer rumours

 

While his future seems anything but certain and Real Madrid still adamant on bringing the 24-year old back to Spain, David De Gea is still a United player and should take his place in goal against Spurs. Victor Valdes has been frozen out by Van Gaal while new signing Sergio Romero should be on the bench.

Defence – Darmian, Smalling, Blind, Shaw

Matteo Darmian has featured prominently in the pre-season tour since his move from Torino last month and should take his place at right back with the talented Luke Shaw on the left. The former Southampton man struggled with injuries and expectations last term, but should come good for United.

Talented Luke shaw has a great opportunity to prove his worth
Talented Luke Shaw has a great opportunity to prove his worth for Manchester United

Louis van Gaal has confirmed that he sees Daley Blind in a centre back role this season and that his fellow Dutchman will start the season opener. Chris Smalling finished last season on a strong note and should take his place alongside Blind at the heart of the defence.

Midfield – Carrick, Schneiderlin, Mata, Depay, Young.

Bastian Schweinsteiger has looked off the pace in pre-season and should only be on the bench with Michael Carrick and Morgan Schneiderlin starting in defensive midfield.

Should United sign Pedro, Louis van Gaal could well deploy a 4-3-3 formation, but it seems he might go for a 4-2-3-1 formation against Spurs.

Bastian Schweinsteiger could start on bench in his first official game for Manchester United
Bastian Schweinsteiger could start on bench in his first official game for Manchester United

Juan Mata should start on the right wing with Ashley Young on the left. Memphis Depay has been tipped by many to shine at United and should play in the No. 10 role behind the striker.

Striker – Wayne Rooney

Manchester United skipper Wayne Rooney will hope to rediscover his old form back
Manchester United skipper Wayne Rooney will hope to rediscover his old form back

Wayne Rooney hasn’t played as the team’s premier No.9 for three seasons, but Van Gaal has said he trusts the United skipper to deliver the goals on a consistent basis this season. Can Rooney rediscover his best form this season?