(4-2-3-1) Predicted Man United XI vs Fulham,Five changes made to the squad that played against Man city as Ten Hag set to start the season with a massive three points

After a period of anticipation, Manchester United supporters finally have reason to celebrate in the transfer market. Although the club made early moves by signing Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, there was a sense of frustration as other transfer efforts seemed to stall without producing any tangible results. However, the situation took a turn for the better when news broke yesterday that Manchester United had successfully completed a deal with Bayern Munich to acquire Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui for a combined fee of £60 million. These new additions are expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team’s defense.Defense has been a persistent concern for Erik ten Hag as he prepares for the upcoming season. The injury-prone nature of several key players has only heightened this worry. However, with the smart acquisitions of De Ligt and Mazraoui, Manchester United has taken a significant step toward reinforcing their backline. The question now is how Erik ten Hag might integrate these new signings into his starting eleven.

In goal, Andre Onana remains the undisputed first choice. The Cameroonian goalkeeper will be keen to build on his performances from last season and become a more commanding presence between the posts. In front of him, the defense could take the form of a four-man backline, with Noussair Mazraoui slotting in at right-back, Matthijs de Ligt partnering Lisandro Martinez as the central defensive duo, and Luke Shaw holding down the left-back position.While Diogo Dalot has been one of Manchester United’s standout performers over the past year and a half, Mazraoui will likely rotate with the Portuguese defender for the right-back spot. On the other hand, De Ligt is expected to secure a starting role immediately, particularly in light of Leny Yoro’s absence due to injury for the next three months.

Moving to the midfield, Casemiro has demonstrated enough during pre-season to maintain his position as the defensive midfielder. The club has not brought in any new signings to challenge his role, making his inclusion in the starting lineup almost certain. He could be joined by English prospect Kobbie Mainoo, who would partner him at the base of midfield.

Ahead of this duo, Bruno Fernandes is likely to take up the number 10 role, with Mason Mount available as a reliable backup. On the wings, Marcus Rashford is expected to start on the left, provided he is fit, while Alejandro Garnacho has earned his place on the right side of the attack.

The center-forward position is anticipated to go to Joshua Zirkzee, another of Manchester United’s recent signings, especially with Rasmus Hojlund sidelined for the start of the season. If Zirkzee can make a strong impression early on, he could cement his spot as the leading striker at Old Trafford.

The arrivals of De Ligt and Mazraoui have undoubtedly added a sense of stability to Erik ten Hag’s squad. Mazraoui’s versatility allows him to cover multiple defensive positions, including left-back if necessary, while De Ligt brings a calm and composed presence to the heart of the defense. His assuredness offers a significant upgrade over the likes of Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans. Overall, Manchester United appears to be in a stronger position with these two strategic signings.The recent acquisitions of Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui by Manchester United are indeed exciting developments for the club. These signings directly address concerns in the defense, which has been a significant area of focus for Erik ten Hag as he prepares for the upcoming season.

**Potential Starting XI with De Ligt and Mazraoui:**

– **Goalkeeper:** Andre Onana remains the first-choice goalkeeper, expected to continue his role as a key player in the squad.

– **Defense:**
– **Right-back:** Noussair Mazraoui is likely to compete with Diogo Dalot for the starting spot, providing Ten Hag with options depending on the tactical setup or opposition.
– **Center-backs:** Matthijs de Ligt is expected to partner Lisandro Martinez, forming a solid and complementary central defensive pairing. De Ligt’s experience and composure, combined with Martinez’s tenacity, could create a strong foundation at the back.
– **Left-back:** Luke Shaw is expected to retain his position, with Mazraoui offering versatility to cover in case of injuries or tactical changes.

– **Midfield:**
– **Defensive midfield:** Casemiro’s leadership and defensive capabilities make him a guaranteed starter. His experience will be crucial in shielding the backline.
– **Central midfield:** Kobbie Mainoo, who has impressed in pre-season, could partner Casemiro, providing a blend of youthful energy and defensive discipline.

– **Attacking midfield:**
– **Number 10:** Bruno Fernandes will likely continue in his creative role, with Mason Mount providing depth and rotation options.

– **Attack:**
– **Left wing:** Marcus Rashford is expected to start, provided he’s fit, given his importance to United’s attacking play.
– **Right wing:** Alejandro Garnacho has shown enough promise to secure the right-wing position, offering pace and directness.
– **Center-forward:** Joshua Zirkzee, one of United’s latest signings, is anticipated to lead the line, especially with Rasmus Hojlund out due to injury. Zirkzee’s early performances will be critical in determining whether he can establish himself as the first-choice striker.

**Strategic Impact:**
– **Mazraoui’s Versatility:** His ability to play across the defensive line gives Ten Hag flexibility in managing the squad, especially with the congested fixture schedule and potential injuries.
– **De Ligt’s Influence:** De Ligt’s presence could elevate the defensive stability of the team, offering a significant improvement over other central defensive options like Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans.

Overall, the signings of De Ligt and Mazraoui signify a positive step forward in Manchester United’s squad development, addressing key areas of concern and potentially providing the team with the stability and quality needed to compete at the highest level.