Manchester United are set to host AS Roma at Old Trafford later today in their UEFA Champions League Matchday 4 fixture.
The Red Devils have lost their attacking spark, but their defensive problems remain the biggest concern.
United have conceded 12 goals in their last five matches, highlighting the alarming lack of stability at the back.
Aside from their 4-0 victory over Sabah FK, they have failed to keep a clean sheet in any competition.
Head coach Michael Carrick potentially has only two games to save his managerial job.
With the pressure mounting, we believe Carrick must stop prioritising experience and instead unleash what could be United’s strongest centre-back partnership.
Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt must start vs Roma
Matthijs de Ligt was the best United defender last season before an unfortunate injury forced him out for nine months.
The Dutchman finally returned to action in the humiliating defeat to Como, but understandably looked short of match sharpness.
However, Carrick cannot afford to wait for him to regain full fitness when United’s other defenders continue to make costly mistakes.
Lisandro Martinez has seemingly lost focus at Old Trafford. Though his comments about the hierarchy were spot on, he ultimately created more problems for his teammates and manager.
He has made several costly mistakes but his dismal performance against Chelsea should be enough to drop him.
Harry Maguire has also featured in recent matches and could benefit from a spell out of the starting XI.
De Ligt should take up the left-sided centre-back position, with Leny Yoro partnering him.
The Frenchman has been the best United player this season.
Mistakes are part of growth for any player but Yoro has already shown why United were willing to spend £52 million to sign him two years ago.
The 20-year-old looks increasingly assured in possession and has made noticeable progress in his ability to read the game.
Yoro and De Ligt have yet to start together this campaign, but their contrasting qualities could make them United’s most promising centre-back partnership for the upcoming 2-3 years.
Stats from Fotmob.com