Manchester United will face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in the Premier League this weekend.
The Red Devils will be desperate to bounce back after a shock 1–0 defeat against Everton on Monday.
Manager Ruben Amorim made some baffling decisions that did not help his team produce a positive result.
It is imperative for Amorim to get his starting XI right against Palace.
Matheus Cunha for Noussair Mazraoui
Cunha missed the Everton clash due to a head injury he sustained in training.
The setback is considered minor, paving the way for Cunha to return to the starting XI.
The 26-year-old has just one goal for United so far, but his overall impact has been far more impressive than his numbers suggest.
His intensity, relentless running and infectious energy are exactly what United lacked on Monday night.
However, he will ultimately be judged on goals and assists, something he must deliver more consistently as the season progresses.
Amorim should restore him to the left number 10 role, allowing Amad Diallo to shift back to his best position at right wing-back.
Mazraoui is better suited to the right centre-back position. The 28-year-old must compete with Leny Yoro for the starting spot.
Mason Mount for Joshua Zirkzee
Joshua Zirkzee was handed his first start of the 2025–26 season against Everton and failed to convince.
He came close to scoring three times late in the contest but should have converted one of those chances.
A striker at a top Premier League club must be ruthless, a quality Zirkzee lacks.
Mount came off the bench on Monday but should be reinstated in the starting XI against Palace.
The England international formed an excellent early-season connection with Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, offering creativity and movement that Zirkzee did not.
With Benjamin Sesko sidelined with a knee injury, Amorim must return to the trio that brought balance to the XI.
Stats from Fotmob.com