Manchester United will be looking to put a tough start to the season behind them when they take on Brentford this weekend in the Premier League.
However, Erik ten Hag’s selection headaches continue as injuries to key players, particularly in the full-back positions, are beginning to pile up.
This crucial fixture sees United desperate for points, but with a number of defensive players sidelined, Ten Hag will have to get creative with his team selection.
Let’s take a closer look at the predicted lineup for Manchester United’s upcoming match against Brentford and how Ten Hag may navigate through his injury-ridden squad.
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Injury Crisis Continues to Haunt United
Manchester United’s poor form at the start of the season has placed Erik ten Hag under immense pressure.
With just a few wins under their belt, the team is sitting far below expectations. Now, they face Brentford at Old Trafford—a side known for their quick starts and early goals.
But as if their league form wasn’t enough of a problem, injuries to key players, especially in the full-back positions, have made manchester United’s task even harder.
Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, both out with injuries, leave Ten Hag without a natural left-back. To make matters worse, Noussair Mazraoui, who had been filling in on the right side, is recovering from a minor heart procedure. That leaves Diogo Dalot, typically a right-back, as the only available senior full-back.
Predicted Man Utd Lineup vs Brentford
Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
Despite his early-season struggles, Onana has shown improvement in recent matches. He’ll be expected to continue his form as manchester United’s number one goalkeeper and lead the defense against a Brentford side that can be dangerous on the counterattack.
Right-Back: Victor Lindelof
With Mazraoui out, Ten Hag might turn to Victor Lindelof to fill the right-back position. The Swede is a center-back by trade but has played at right-back before, including during the second half against Aston Villa. Lindelof’s versatility will be crucial as United look to manage their injury crisis.
Center-Back: Matthijs de Ligt
United’s summer signing, Matthijs de Ligt, will likely get the nod to start in central defense. De Ligt has formed a strong partnership with Lisandro Martinez, though they’ve had limited opportunities to gel as a duo. Brentford’s physical presence up front means de Ligt’s strength and aerial ability will be key.
Center-Back: Lisandro Martinez
Lisandro Martinez returns from international duty with Argentina and should slot back into the center of defense.
Though he only played a limited number of minutes during the international break, Martinez will need to be sharp to deal with the Brentford attack. His tenacity and ball-playing ability are essential to Ten Hag’s defensive setup.
Left-Back: Diogo Dalot
Dalot has become a makeshift left-back in recent months, and with both Shaw and Malacia unavailable, he’ll likely continue in that role.
Though it’s not his natural position, Dalot’s attacking instincts could provide an outlet on the left side, especially with Brentford known for exploiting wide areas.
Dalot will need to balance his offensive contributions with defensive responsibilities to deal with Brentford’s right-wing threat, Bryan Mbeumo.
Central Midfielder: Christian Eriksen
Christian Eriksen’s experience in midfield will be vital, especially against a Brentford side that can press and counter with speed.
The Danish international, whose contract is running out at the end of the season, will want to impress in front of his former teammates and maintain control in midfield.
Eriksen’s creativity and composure on the ball will be important in breaking down Brentford’s defensive lines.
Central Midfielder: Manuel Ugarte
Although there is concern surrounding Ugarte’s fitness after a minor knock while on Uruguay duty, Ten Hag will be hopeful he’s ready to start.
Ugarte has become a crucial figure in the midfield, offering balance and grit. If he’s unavailable, Ten Hag may be forced to turn to a less experienced option, which could further complicate United’s game plan.
Attacking Midfielder: Bruno Fernandes
Club captain Bruno Fernandes has struggled for form this season, but his influence on the team cannot be underestimated.
A strong performance from Fernandes could lift the entire squad and ease the mounting pressure on Ten Hag. His creativity and leadership will be needed to unlock a Brentford defense that has been stubborn at times this season.
Attacking Trio: Speed and Firepower
Right-Winger: Alejandro Garnacho
Despite dealing with a minor knee injury, Garnacho should be fit enough to feature in the starting lineup.
The Argentine winger’s pace and flair can trouble the Brentford defense, and he’ll be expected to provide a spark on the right side of United’s attack.
Left-Winger: Marcus Rashford
Rashford has had a quiet start to the season, but the absence of international duty with England might give him the rest he needs to regain form.
Rashford’s pace and ability to cut inside from the left could be key to unlocking Brentford’s backline.
Striker: Rasmus Hojlund
After returning from injury, Rasmus Hojlund is expected to lead the line for manchester United. The young striker has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited appearances, and with Joshua Zirkzee failing to capitalize on his chances, Hojlund should get the nod to start.
