(4-2-3-1) Three changes made”, Possible Man United XI vs Liverpool – as Ten Hag axe out three players from XI to avoid Humiliation at Old Trafford
Manchester United has fielded the same starting lineup and substitutes for their first two Premier League games against Fulham and Brighton & Hove Albion. However, to give the team the best chance of avoiding consecutive defeats, Erik ten Hag must consider making some changes, particularly before their crucial match against Liverpool.
Ten Hag is currently managing under significant pressure and cannot afford to head into the September international break with three losses out of four games, especially during a season as important as this one. If two of those defeats come against Manchester United’s biggest rivals, it will only heighten the tension and dissatisfaction among the club’s already frustrated supporters. A victory for Liverpool at Old Trafford would exacerbate this unrest.
### Harry Maguire
Harry Maguire wasn’t the sole reason for Danny Welbeck’s opening goal at the Amex Stadium, but he could have done more to prevent Joao Pedro’s threatening cross. Despite Maguire’s efforts, Ten Hag has a promising £43 million signing, Matthijs de Ligt, waiting for his chance. De Ligt, who has come off the bench in both of United’s league matches, seems to be gradually increasing his game time.
It may be time for Ten Hag to start de Ligt alongside Lisandro Martinez from the beginning against Liverpool. The significance of this match cannot be understated, making it an ideal opportunity to test this potential partnership.
### Mason Mount
Mason Mount was one of United’s stronger players against Brighton, but this raises a perplexing issue given his £60 million transfer from Chelsea. The challenge lies in the fact that any attacking midfielder who joins United while Bruno Fernandes is at the club faces a difficult task to secure a spot, as was the case with Donny van de Beek. Fernandes has recently committed to the club’s future, which makes Mount’s role even more complex.
While Mount’s ability to press high up the field is valuable, United has also brought in £36.5 million striker Joshua Zirkzee, who was partly recruited for his pressing ability as well. However, what United truly needs is a natural striker. Fernandes should return to his role as the No. 10, with Zirkzee leading the attack when Liverpool visits Old Trafford.
### Marcus Rashford
This decision may be controversial, but it’s time to reconsider Marcus Rashford’s untouchable status in the starting lineup. Although Rashford showed flashes of brilliance in the matches against Brighton and Fulham, his form hasn’t been consistent enough to guarantee his place.
Amad, who came off the bench on the south coast and scored, and Alejandro Garnacho, who also made an impact as a substitute, deserve more opportunities. Despite Rashford’s strong scoring record against Liverpool, it might be time for Ten Hag to deploy both Amad and Garnacho on the wings.
Pairing these young, energetic wingers with Fernandes’ creativity in the middle and Zirkzee’s presence up front could result in a more balanced and effective performance for Manchester United.
