(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 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.

Given the pressure Erik ten Hag is under and the significance of Manchester United’s upcoming match against Liverpool, some lineup changes are indeed worth considering. United’s performances in their first two Premier League games have left room for improvement, and a shake-up could be necessary to avoid further disappointment.

### 1. **Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt**
Harry Maguire’s defensive lapses have been a concern, and with Matthijs de Ligt gradually integrating into the squad, this might be the perfect opportunity to start him alongside Lisandro Martinez. De Ligt’s composure and ability to read the game could provide the stability United needs at the back, especially against Liverpool’s potent attack.

### 2. **Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes**
Mason Mount has shown promise, but his role alongside Bruno Fernandes remains complicated. Fernandes has established himself as the team’s creative fulcrum, and Mount’s pressing abilities alone might not justify his inclusion over other tactical needs. A more straightforward solution would be to restore Fernandes to his natural No. 10 role, allowing Mount to either adjust to a deeper position or make way for a more traditional striker, such as Joshua Zirkzee, who could offer United the clinical edge they need.

### 3. **Marcus Rashford**
Rashford’s form has been inconsistent, and while he has a strong track record against Liverpool, Ten Hag might benefit from trying a new approach on the wings. Both Amad and Alejandro Garnacho have shown their ability to make an impact off the bench and could bring fresh energy and unpredictability to United’s attack. Deploying them on the wings, with Zirkzee up front and Fernandes orchestrating play centrally, could provide a more balanced and dynamic attacking setup.

### **Potential Lineup for Liverpool**
– **Goalkeeper**: André Onana
– **Defenders**: Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw
– **Midfielders**: Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes
– **Forwards**: Amad Diallo, Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho

This lineup gives United a solid defensive foundation while introducing fresh attacking options. The inclusion of de Ligt and Zirkzee provides a blend of youth and experience, while Amad and Garnacho offer pace and directness that could unsettle Liverpool’s defense. This approach not only strengthens United defensively but also gives them a more varied and unpredictable attack, crucial for such a high-stakes match.