The nightmare run of matches continued for Louis van Gaal and Manchester United, as they crashed out of Champions League Play this week. United suffered the 3-2 loss to Wolfsburg, and now must keep their Thursday nights open during their Europa League play.
With Champions League in the rear-view mirror, van Gaal must steer the ship in the Premier League and make a run for the title or at least maintain their top 4 finish. If van Gaal doesn’t perform domestically, there are some big names that could replace the Dutchman if he gets sacked.
Here is United’s strongest lineup against Bournemouth…
Goalkeeper
David de Gea uncharacteristically let up 2 goals in the midweek match, but still remains top choice for keeper. With United out of Champions League, de Gea must wonder what it would be like it he could of made a run with Real Madrid.
Right-Back
Matteo Darmian picked up an injury and won’t feature in his right back role, so this will give Guillermo Varela an opportunity. Varela is coming off his first start this past week in Germany.
Center-Backs
Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are out as well, nonetheless, Daley Blind will move and fill one of the roles along with Paddy McNair. With Smalling missing time for the first time in a while, this could be a nervy back line for The Red Devils.
Left-Back
As the injuries mount, van Gaal will looked to young Cameron Borthwick-Jackson to patrol the left side of defence. The Englishman has been praised by van Gaal recently and will hope that vote of confidence translate to a positive match this Saturday.
Defensive Midfield
With Bastian Schweinsteiger suspended and Morgan Schneiderlin a doubt, van Gaal will turn to the unlikely and unproven pair of Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini. Both are trusted veterans and will be asked to do their best to shield the young and unproven back four.
Attacking Midfield
Injuries to Wayne Rooney and Ander Herrera will allow the trio of Juan Mata, Ashley Young and Memphis Depay make the start in attack. Young will most certainly relish the opportunity to start in an attacking role, rarely doing so for much of the season.
Forward
Anthony Martial finally broke his run of scoreless games, as he and Mata combined for an important goal in the Champions League match. The goal should help boost the young Frenchman’s confidence and lead him on a run of strikes.
(4-2-3-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
