Amad Diallo starts, Zirkzee lead the Frontline”, Predicted Community Shield starting line-ups as Man United face potential injury crisis
In a repeat of last season’s FA Cup final, Manchester United will again have the opportunity to secure victory over Manchester City on August 10, as the two teams face off in the 2024 Community Shield final. The Red Devils’ thrilling 2-1 win in the previous encounter not only extended their record for the most FA Cup titles to 13 but also played a crucial role in ensuring Erik ten Hag retained his position as manager after a disappointing Premier League season.
Key Statistic from GIVEMESPORT: This marks the first time since 1885 that the same two clubs have faced each other in consecutive FA Cup finals, as Manchester United and Manchester City met in both the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons.
Though the Community Shield is often regarded as a “glorified pre-season friendly,” the stakes are high for both Manchester clubs. Neither side will want to surrender bragging rights to their fiercest rival, adding a layer of intensity to this otherwise underestimated match.
As both teams prepare for the clash, the primary question on everyone’s mind is how the managers will set up their squads. The team announcements, typically made about an hour before kickoff, will offer clues about their strategies for the upcoming Premier League season. However, predicting the starting lineups is challenging due to Pep Guardiola’s unpredictable selection methods and Ten Hag’s need to adapt to an injury crisis.
Manchester United faces significant selection issues, with key players like Rasmus Hojlund, Antony, Marcus Rashford, and new £52 million signing Leny Yoro sidelined. These injuries complicate the club’s transition phase, especially after the decision to retain Ten Hag as manager.
Despite the challenges, the injury situation does simplify some selection decisions for Ten Hag. In defense, United is likely to adopt a traditional setup, with Andre Onana in goal, Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire in central defense, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Harry Amass on the flanks due to their solid pre-season performances.
In midfield, Ten Hag is expected to field his strongest available lineup, as there have been no significant injury concerns in this area. Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Mason Mount are anticipated to start, though Kobbie Mainoo will miss out as he recovers from England’s Euro 2024 final loss to Spain.
The attacking lineup poses more questions due to the injuries. Amad Diallo is likely to start on the right wing, having impressed during pre-season with consistent goal contributions. Joshua Zirkzee is expected to make his competitive debut, filling in for the injured Hojlund and Rashford, while Jadon Sancho aims to demonstrate he can rejuvenate his career at Old Trafford.
As the Community Shield approaches, both teams will be eager to claim early-season bragging rights and set a positive tone for the upcoming Premier League campaign. The match promises to be a compelling encounter, with both sides determined to secure victory against their city rivals.
