Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim will look to bounce back after suffering his first defeat at the club—a 2-0 loss to Arsenal—when his team welcomes Nottingham Forest to Old Trafford this weekend. Amorim, so far has rotated his starting lineups a lot, and is expected to continue the same and make seven changes to his starting XI as he aims to regain momentum and maintain United’s strong home form.
United’s seven-game unbeaten run across all competitions ended at the Emirates, where Arsenal capitalized on set-piece opportunities. Despite this setback, the Red Devils remain a formidable force at home, boasting six wins and one draw in their last seven games at Old Trafford, with three clean sheets in their last four home fixtures.
On the other hand, Nottingham Forest has been a revelation this season under Nuno Espirito Santo, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League. However, recent form has been unkind to Forest, with three losses in their last four matches. Despite this, their away record remains impressive, with Forest collecting the joint-third most points on the road this season.
### **Team News**
**Manchester United**
* **Unavailable:** Luke Shaw (injury) and Victor Lindelof (groin).
* **Doubts:** Jonny Evans (knock).
* **Returning:** Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo are available after serving one-match suspensions.
Amorim could hand a first competitive start to Leny Yoro in defense. Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo, who impressed in the win over Everton, are likely to be reinstated to the starting lineup. Joshua Zirkzee, who also shone in that match, could lead the attack.
### **Predicted Lineup**
**Manchester United (3-4-2-1):**
* **GK:** André Onana
* **CBs:** Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez
* **Wing-backs:** Amad Diallo, Diogo Dalot
* **CMs:** Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
* **AMs:** Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford
* **ST:** Joshua Zirkzee
### **Key Changes for United**
1. **Defensive Solidity:** Leny Yoro is tipped to replace the recently recovered Harry Maguired, bringing youthful energy and pace to the backline.
2. **Wing-back Experiment:** Amad Diallo’s attacking threat will be utilized in a wing-back role, providing width and penetration.
3. **Midfield Refresh:** Kobbie Mainoo returns to the XI, offering control and dynamism alongside Casemiro.
4. **Rashford’s Return:** The Englishman is expected to reclaim his spot in the attacking midfield role, aiming to exploit Forest’s defensive vulnerabilities.
5. **Zirkzee Leads the Line:** After his brace against Everton, Zirkzee’s physicality and finishing ability will be pivotal in breaking down Forest’s defense.
### **Match Prediction**
Man United’s recent home form and the tactical tweaks by Amorim should give them the edge over a Forest side that has struggled defensively in recent weeks. While Forest possesses the counter-attacking tools to pose problems, United’s superior quality and depth should see them secure a much-needed win.
**Prediction:** Manchester United 2-0 Nottingham Forest
**Key Players to Watch:**
* **Bruno Fernandes:** The creative lynchpin will look to dictate play and create chances for Rashford and Zirkzee.
* **Amad Diallo:** Operating in an unfamiliar wing-back role, Diallo’s flair and energy could be decisive.
* **Anthony Elanga:** The ex-Red Devil will be motivated to make an impact against his former club.
This match represents an opportunity for Amorim to reaffirm his philosophy and for United to climb back toward the top four. A dominant performance at Old Trafford would do wonders for confidence as they navigate the busy December fixture schedule.