(4-3-2-1) Bruno Fernandez dropped for the very first time”, Predicted Man United line up to face Aston Villa today – As Ten Hag make three crucial changes to previous XI

Erik ten Hag faces a critical test as his Manchester United side takes on Aston Villa in Sunday’s Premier League clash at Villa Park. The pressure on the Dutch manager is immense, especially after recent disappointing results, and another poor showing could further jeopardize his position at the club.

United enters the match following a frustrating 3-3 Europa League draw against Porto, where they surrendered a two-goal lead before Harry Maguire’s late header secured a point. This draw came on the heels of a shocking Champions League upset, where Unai Emery’s Aston Villa defeated Bayern Munich, proving they are a formidable force this season.

All eyes will be on Villa Park, including those of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, as many speculate that a loss could be the final straw for Ten Hag at Old Trafford. Despite United’s bright start in the midweek clash against Porto, they struggled to maintain their lead, allowing goals from Pepe and Samu Omorodion. This marked the second consecutive match where United’s defense was exposed, having also been thrashed 3-0 by Tottenham Hotspur in a recent Premier League game, in which Bruno Fernandes was controversially sent off.

Currently languishing in 13th place in the league with just three wins from 10 games, Manchester United’s form has been a cause for concern. Critics are beginning to question whether Ten Hag’s time at the club is nearing an end. However, the manager can take some solace from United’s recent performances on the road, where they’ve kept two consecutive clean sheets in the league, against Crystal Palace and Southampton. If they manage a third, it would be their best defensive away run since 2021.

On the other hand, Aston Villa comes into the game brimming with confidence after defeating Bayern Munich in a 1-0 victory. Jhon Duran, Villa’s super substitute, made a swift impact, taking advantage of a defensive lapse by Bayern’s Manuel Neuer to secure the win. Villa’s impressive form in the Champions League this season, combined with their solid run in the Premier League, has them firmly in the race for the top four. They’ve won six of their last seven games in all competitions, although their recent 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town slightly dented their momentum.

Despite dropping points against Ipswich, Villa is just outside the league’s top spots. Their last meeting with Manchester United at Villa Park ended in a 2-1 defeat, with Scott McTominay netting the late winner for United. Villa will be eager to change that narrative, especially with a chance to pile more pressure on Ten Hag.

Bruno Fernandes, after having his suspension overturned following his red card against Tottenham, was again sent off during the Porto match for a high boot. Luckily for United, this ban only applies to European competition, so he remains eligible to play against Villa. However, Ten Hag faces an injury crisis, with Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Leny Yoro all sidelined. Additionally, Mason Mount’s availability is uncertain after suffering a head injury and a knock during the Spurs game, and young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo might return after an injury scare.

In terms of attacking options, Marcus Rashford was one of the brighter sparks for United in their draw against Porto, but he was substituted at halftime as part of Ten Hag’s rotation strategy. Rashford, along with Alejandro Garnacho, could start on the wings, as Amad Diallo might make way for a reshuffle in the lineup.

Aston Villa, while in fine form, also has injury concerns. Jacob Ramsey was forced off with a groin injury during their historic win over Bayern, and Amadou Onana had to be substituted due to a hamstring issue. Both are doubts for the weekend, while Leon Bailey, who came on for Ramsey, was also subbed off later in the match, though his situation appears less serious. Villa’s manager, Unai Emery, is also missing key players such as Tyrone Mings, Boubacar Kamara, and John McGinn due to long-term injuries. As a result, Emery may be forced to adjust his lineup, potentially pairing Jhon Duran with Ollie Watkins up front.

Predicted lineups:

Aston Villa:

Goalkeeper: Martinez

Defenders: Konsa, Carlos, Torres, Digne

Midfielders: Rogers, Barkley, Tielemans, Philogene

Forwards: Duran, Watkins

Manchester United:

Goalkeeper: Onana

Defenders: Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire, Dalot

Midfielders: Mainoo, Ugarte, Fernandes

Forwards: Garnacho, Rashford, Zirkzee

Both teams have plenty to play for, with Manchester United seeking to revive their season and Aston Villa continuing their strong push up the league table. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Erik ten Hag as he looks to turn his fortunes around and buy himself more time at Old Trafford.
Sunday’s Premier League clash at Villa Park is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for Erik ten Hag, with mounting pressure following Manchester United’s recent struggles. Despite some promising moments, such as their Europa League draw against Porto, defensive frailties have continued to haunt the Red Devils. Surrendering a two-goal lead before Harry Maguire’s late equalizer exposed the persistent issues at the back, which could be problematic against a high-flying Aston Villa side.

Unai Emery’s Villa is riding high after a remarkable Champions League victory over Bayern Munich, showing their ability to take on elite opposition. Villa’s form, particularly at home, and their position just outside the top four place them in a strong position to further pile pressure on Ten Hag. With Villa winning six of their last seven matches, they are a dangerous prospect, especially after a tightly fought 1-0 win over Bayern, courtesy of Jhon Duran’s quick reaction to capitalize on a Bayern defensive mistake.

Manchester United’s inconsistent form, which sees them languishing in 13th place, has heightened speculation about Ten Hag’s future. Another loss could spell the end of his tenure, especially with Sir Jim Ratcliffe reportedly keen on making changes at Old Trafford. United’s backline, already stretched thin due to injuries to Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and new signing Leny Yoro, will need to be at its best to cope with Villa’s attacking threat, particularly from Duran and Ollie Watkins.

For Villa, the absence of key players like Jacob Ramsey and Amadou Onana is a blow, but they remain dangerous, with Emery likely to tweak his side. United, meanwhile, will rely on Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho to spearhead the attack, while Bruno Fernandes, cleared to play in the league despite his European suspension, will be key in midfield.

Both teams have a lot at stake—United to salvage their season and Villa to cement their place as a top-four contender. For Erik ten Hag, this match could define his future at Manchester United.