(4-2-3-1) Surprised Manchester United line under Zidane as INEOS set to surprise United fans with a new coach ahead of Southampton clash

Manchester United are set to return to Premier League action next week when they face Southampton, as they aim to steer their season back on course. After a shaky start to the campaign, manager Erik ten Hag will be hoping for better performances from his squad, especially as they face this crucial fixture.

It hasn’t been smooth sailing for United, with their form causing concern. However, the international break might prove to be beneficial for the team, offering a chance to regroup and recover. Notably, there’s hope that two key players, Luke Shaw and new signing Rasmus Højlund, could make their return from injury in time for the game. Their presence would undoubtedly provide a boost to Ten Hag’s plans as he seeks to stabilize his team.

Additionally, Manuel Ugarte, another summer signing, might finally make his long-awaited debut. Having gained match fitness while playing for Uruguay during the international break, Ugarte could be considered for selection. Although he hasn’t played in any club matches yet this season, he has trained briefly with his Manchester United teammates. Despite this, it’s still unclear whether Ten Hag will risk starting him, particularly as Ugarte is still adjusting to his new surroundings.

In midfield, Ten Hag faces a tough decision. Brazilian midfielder Casemiro has struggled in recent performances, with his display against Liverpool coming under heavy criticism. Even with this dip in form, it’s possible Ten Hag will keep faith in the experienced midfielder, opting for stability in the team rather than making sweeping changes. Many fans might find it surprising if Casemiro starts, given his recent poor form, but his experience could still make him a crucial component of the starting lineup.

Looking ahead, a return to the familiar 4-2-2-2 formation might be on the cards for United as they face Southampton. Below is a predicted lineup, featuring a mix of returning players and those looking to redeem themselves after a difficult start to the season:

1. **Goalkeeper – Andre Onana**
Despite a difficult outing against Liverpool, Andre Onana remains United’s first-choice goalkeeper. He’ll be expected to improve and will likely retain his position between the posts.

2. **Centre-back – Matthijs de Ligt**
One of the few positives in the Liverpool match, de Ligt’s solid performance in defense likely earns him another start. Ten Hag will want to keep him as a defensive mainstay.

3. **Centre-back – Lisandro Martínez**
Ten Hag will be eager to settle on a consistent center-back pairing, and Martínez seems the logical choice to partner de Ligt at the heart of United’s defense.

4. **Right-back – Noussair Mazraoui**
Mazraoui has shown promise since joining United and should be given another opportunity to impress on the right side of defense.

5. **Left-back – Diogo Dalot**
With Luke Shaw only recently recovering from injury, it may be too risky to start him immediately. As a result, Dalot is likely to feature in the starting eleven to provide defensive cover on the left flank.

6. **Central Defensive Midfield – Casemiro**
Casemiro’s recent performances have been underwhelming, but his vast experience and leadership could still make him an essential part of Ten Hag’s midfield setup. Starting him would signal a belief in his ability to bounce back from his struggles.

7. **Central Defensive Midfield – Kobbie Mainoo**
Mainoo, who has shown flashes of potential, may need a rest after some inconsistent displays. However, if chosen, he’ll need to step up and take his opportunity to prove he deserves his spot in the team.

8. **Attacking Midfield – Amad Diallo**
Amad has been a bright spark in an otherwise challenging season for United. His performances have been consistently impressive, and he’s likely to earn a starting role, even if it’s in an attacking midfield position.

9. **Attacking Midfield – Bruno Fernandes**
Fernandes remains the creative heartbeat of this United side. Despite the team’s struggles, he continues to drive the attack and will be eager to make a positive impact against Southampton.

10. **Striker – Rasmus Højlund**
If fit, Højlund will be a critical part of United’s attack. As the only natural striker in the squad, he’s expected to lead the line and add a clinical edge to their offensive play.

11. **Striker – Marcus Rashford**
Rashford’s strong performance against Liverpool, where he was arguably United’s best attacking player, might see him deployed in a two-striker system alongside Højlund. His pace and ability to stretch defenses could be crucial to United’s strategy.

As United prepare for their clash with Southampton, there’s hope that the return of key players, combined with tactical adjustments, will be enough to spark a turnaround in form. Ten Hag faces tough decisions, but the potential return of Shaw and Højlund offers a timely boost, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how the team performs in what is now a must-win game.