Bruno Fernandes Man United
Bruno Fernandes
Man United are taking slow but positive strides under new manager Ruben Amorim. However, they must start picking up wins to avoid finishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
Currently sitting 13th, United’s next challenge is a tricky away fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. With just two wins in their last five league matches, a defeat at the weekend could see them drop as low as 16th by the end of the matchweek.
Amorim has emphasized that his rebuild will require patience, and while fans continue to back him, seeing their club hovering just above the relegation zone is not the ideal scenario. Both Spurs and Man United are struggling with confidence, making Sunday’s match a pretty balanced affair and it won’t be a surprise if it ends in a goalless draw.
Manchester United Team News & Injury Updates:
Lisandro Martínez is out for the remainder of the season, leaving Man United without a natural left-footed centre-back. Leny Yoro is expected to shift into Martínez’s position, with Matthijs de Ligt operating on the right side of a three-man defence alongside Harry Maguire.
New signing Patrick Dorgu, who was used on the right flank against Leicester, should return to his preferred position on the left. Meanwhile, Diogo Dalot or Noussair Mazraoui will take up the right wing-back role.
One of Amorim’s ongoing dilemmas is how best to utilize Kobbie Mainoo. The youngster has been deployed in multiple roles—CDM, No. 10, and even as a forward—but his exact position in Amorim’s system remains uncertain.
For this match, Amorim will opt to bench Mainoo and instead deploy Bruno Fernandes in a more central role. This adjustment would help counter Tottenham’s pacey attackers, featuring the likes of James Maddison, Son, and Mathys Tel.
Alejandro Garnacho, who played a crucial role in United’s FA Cup victory, is expected to start. The Argentine came off the bench in that game, recording an xG of 0.53 while creating two major chances in just 45 minutes. His pace and trickery will be key in breaking down Spurs’ defence.
Up front, Joshua Zirkzee scored after coming off the bench against Leicester, but Rasmus Højlund is expected to retain his starting spot. Despite Zirkzee’s growing influence and confidence, his languid playing style may not be ideal against Tottenham’s aggressive and high backline.
Amorim has said in his press conference that some players are sick and are a minor doubt for Sunday’s game. The manager did not reveal any names but hopefully, all are fit and available for selection.
Manchester United’s Predicted Lineup vs Spurs:
Goalkeeper: Onana
Defenders: Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Matthijs de Ligt
Midfielders: Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes
Wing-backs: Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot/ Mazraoui
Attackers: Amad Diallo, Alejandro Garnacho, Højlund