(4-3-2-1) Antony first start of the season”, Possible Man United XI vs Barnsley – As Ten Hag set to rest Some key players for crucial premier league game

Manchester United is gearing up to face Barnsley at Old Trafford this Tuesday night in an EFL Cup match. After their recent commanding 3-0 win against Southampton, Erik ten Hag’s side is expected to enter the game in high spirits, although the manager will likely rotate his squad in preparation for a more crucial Premier League fixture later on. Ten Hag’s squad selection for this cup match reflects a balance between resting key players and giving opportunities to others who have yet to feature prominently this season.

Formation and Tactical Setup

Ten Hag will maintain his preferred 4-2-3-1 setup, a formation that provides a solid defensive base while allowing for fluidity in attack. This system is designed to give the wide attackers and full-backs plenty of freedom to push forward, which could be crucial for breaking down Barnsley’s defensive lines. The match offers the perfect platform for fringe players and young talents to showcase their abilities and prove themselves worthy of more playing time in future fixtures.

### Defense: Bayindir in Goal and Defensive Changes

In goal, Altay Bayindir is set to make his appearance, with the Turkish goalkeeper aiming for a clean sheet in front of the home fans. Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans are expected to partner in central defense. Maguire, who has been searching for consistency, and the experienced Evans will look to keep Barnsley at bay. On the right, Noussair Mazraoui is expected to continue as right-back, adding both defensive solidity and an attacking threat. On the left, young Harry Amass is set to start, hoping to impress and make his mark in the first team. Both full-backs will be encouraged to move forward, contributing to United’s attacks down the flanks, particularly when Barnsley are pinned back into their own half.

Veteran defender Matthijs de Ligt is expected to be named on the bench, ready to step in if needed, giving additional defensive cover.

### Midfield: Casemiro and Collyer as Anchors

In midfield, the experienced Casemiro will be paired with Toby Collyer, a young talent eager to show his worth in this match. Together, they will focus on controlling the tempo of the game, protecting the backline while also linking up with the more advanced players. Casemiro’s experience and Collyer’s energy will be key in maintaining Manchester United’s dominance in the center of the park.

Ahead of them, the creative trio of Alejandro Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, and Antony will play just behind the striker. Garnacho, a rising star, will aim to use his pace and flair to unsettle the Barnsley defense, while Fernandes, the team’s primary playmaker, will look to pull the strings and provide service for the attackers. Antony, starting his first game of the season, will be eager to show his attacking prowess, cutting inside from the wing and creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Attack: Wheatley Leading the Line

Up front, Ethan Wheatley is expected to spearhead the attack. This is a golden opportunity for Wheatley to show what he can do, and he’ll be tasked with stretching Barnsley’s defense and creating goal-scoring opportunities. While relatively inexperienced at this level, Wheatley will hope to seize the moment and make an impression in the final third.

Supporting the starting lineup will be Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee, who will likely feature from the bench. Both Rashford and Zirkzee are capable of making an impact late in the game if United require an injection of pace or a change in attacking approach. Additionally, Christian Eriksen, Amad Diallo, and Kobbie Mainoo will also be options from the bench, providing a wealth of talent should Ten Hag need to turn to his substitutes.

### Conclusion: A Test of Squad Depth

This match will serve as a significant test of Manchester United’s squad depth, allowing several players to gain valuable minutes on the pitch while some of the regular starters get a well-earned rest. Ten Hag will expect his side to dominate the game, and the likes of Antony, Wheatley, and Garnacho will be eager to take this opportunity to shine on the big stage. With experienced players like Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro providing leadership on the field, the Red Devils will aim for a comprehensive victory to continue their positive momentum in both domestic and cup competitions.
Manchester United’s EFL Cup tie against Barnsley offers an ideal opportunity for Erik ten Hag to rotate his squad while maintaining the team’s momentum following their recent Premier League success. With the Premier League in mind, this game is a platform for younger talents and fringe players to impress, while key players will be rested.

### **Tactical Setup and Formation**
Ten Hag will likely stick to his favored 4-2-3-1 formation, which has given United a strong defensive structure and allowed attacking players to express themselves. This setup will rely on the full-backs pushing forward to stretch Barnsley’s defense and create attacking overloads on the wings.

### **Defense: Bayindir, Maguire, Evans, and Full-Back Threats**
In goal, **Altay Bayindir** will aim for a confident display, and he’ll be shielded by a central pairing of **Harry Maguire** and **Jonny Evans**. Both experienced defenders will be tasked with keeping Barnsley’s attack quiet and providing stability at the back.

**Noussair Mazraoui** will start at right-back, offering both defensive cover and attacking threat on the overlap. On the left, the promising **Harry Amass** will be given a chance to impress, showcasing his defensive and offensive skills. The combination of solid defending and attacking contributions from the full-backs will be essential in breaking down Barnsley’s resistance.

### **Midfield: Casemiro and Collyer’s Partnership**
In midfield, **Casemiro’s** leadership and defensive expertise will complement the youthful energy of **Toby Collyer**. This pairing will control the pace of the game, with Casemiro orchestrating transitions and Collyer providing dynamism. Together, they will offer protection to the defense while initiating attacking moves from deep positions.

### **Attacking Trio: Garnacho, Fernandes, and Antony**
Ahead of the midfield duo, the attacking trio of **Alejandro Garnacho**, **Bruno Fernandes**, and **Antony** will form the creative hub. Garnacho’s pace and trickery will be pivotal on the left, while Fernandes, playing centrally, will dictate play with his vision and passing range. **Antony**, returning to the starting lineup, will look to make an impact from the right by cutting inside and taking on defenders, providing additional goal-scoring options.

### **Striker: Wheatley Leading the Line**
Leading the line will be young striker **Ethan Wheatley**, who has an excellent chance to showcase his talent. Wheatley will be tasked with creating space, linking up with the attacking trio, and finishing off chances in the box.

### **Substitutes: Rashford, Zirkzee, and Other Options**
Should the game require changes, **Marcus Rashford** and **Joshua Zirkzee** will be key options from the bench. Rashford’s pace and finishing can turn the tide if needed, while Zirkzee offers a different attacking dimension. **Christian Eriksen**, **Amad Diallo**, and **Kobbie Mainoo** are also likely to feature as substitutes, adding creativity and energy in the latter stages.

### **Conclusion: A Showcase of Squad Depth**
This cup match is a great chance for Ten Hag to test the depth of his squad. Players like Garnacho, Antony, and Wheatley will be keen to shine, and with veterans like Fernandes and Casemiro leading on the field, United should have enough quality to comfortably progress to the next round. The focus will be on securing a win while ensuring key players are fresh for upcoming Premier League challenges.