(4-4-2) Leny Yoro returns”, Predicted Manchester United line up vs Fernebahce – as Four key players returns back from injury to face Mourinho men
Manchester United will face Fenerbahce in the Europa League this Thursday at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, but they’ll have to navigate the match with several key players sidelined due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, the team has received a boost with the return of summer signing Leny Yoro, who has progressed in his recovery from a fractured metatarsal. While his return to training is promising, the young defender is not expected to make a first-team appearance until late next month.
Manager Erik ten Hag is dealing with the absence of multiple players, including Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, who are both out due to muscle injuries. Luke Shaw, who is nursing a calf injury, and Tyrell Malacia, sidelined with a knee issue, will also miss the match. Additionally, Mason Mount, who is recovering from a minor knock, and Toby Collyer, whose injury remains unspecified, will not be available. There is also concern over Casemiro, who was substituted in Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Brentford last weekend due to a calf problem. His condition will be closely monitored ahead of Thursday’s game.
Another significant absence is captain Bruno Fernandes, who will miss the match due to suspension after accumulating two yellow cards during the 3-3 draw with Porto three weeks ago. In Fernandes’ absence, Christian Eriksen is expected to step into the number 10 role, orchestrating play from the attacking midfield position. Either Rasmus Hojlund, who scored the winning goal against Brentford, or Joshua Zirkzee could be called upon to lead the attack as the central striker.
On the wings, Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford put in strong performances against Brentford, and they may be retained in the starting lineup. However, Ten Hag may opt to rotate his squad, which could provide opportunities for either Amad Diallo or Antony to feature on the flanks.
Midfielder Manuel Ugarte, who was an unused substitute against Brentford after recovering from an injury sustained while on international duty with Uruguay, is expected to be fit to start in Thursday’s clash. His return could provide much-needed stability in the midfield alongside Casemiro, should the Brazilian be cleared to play.
In defense, Noussair Mazraoui could make a return at right-back, a move that may see Diogo Dalot shift to the left-back position. At the heart of the defense, Lisandro Martinez is expected to partner either Matthijs de Ligt or Jonny Evans in central defense, providing a solid foundation in front of goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The predicted Manchester United starting lineup for this crucial Europa League tie is as follows: Andre Onana in goal; a defensive back four featuring Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, and Dalot; Ugarte and Casemiro holding the midfield; an attacking trio of Garnacho, Eriksen, and Rashford; with Hojlund likely to lead the line as the central striker.
Though United will be missing a number of key players, they remain hopeful of securing a positive result against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce, a team known for its tactical discipline and strength in European competitions. With a mix of returning players and those stepping up to fill the gaps, Erik ten Hag will need to rely on squad depth and adaptability to overcome these challenges on Thursday.