Manchester United return to Premier League action Sunday with what should be a thrilling match-up with Arsenal, who were recently defeated at home by Lionel Messi and Barcelona in Champions League action. With Barcelona almost certainly crushing Arsenal’s chances for Champions League glory, Arsene Wenger and Arsenal will turn their attention to the League and hope to get revenge on a depleted United side.
Louis van Gaal’s side sits 10 points away from Arsenal for 3rd place in the table and 6 points from 4th place Manchester City. If United can find a way to gather all three points, the Red Devils can put the pressure on the noisy neighbors when they take the pitch for their next League match-up against a hungry Liverpool side on March 2nd.
Here is the strongest possible lineup for the match against Arsenal –
Goalkeeper
David de Gea missed out on the second leg of Europa League clash, however, the Spaniard should be back defending United’s goal on Sunday. Sergio Romero remains a quality replacement if de Gea suffers a setback and cannot go this weekend.
Defence
In-form Chris Smalling and Daley Blind, barring any injury concerns, should return to the center of United’s defence where they will have to combat with Arsenal’s strike force. After a poor showing against Barcelona, Alexis Sanchez and other Arsenal attackers will surely look to take advantage of United’s injury ravaged defence.
Again, barring any injuries or concerns, the fullback positions could be occupied by Guillermo Varela and Cameron Borthwick-Jackson. The two young fullbacks will have their hands full with the pacey Sanchez and the ever dangerous Aaron Ramsey in the wide areas.
Joe Riley and Guillermo Varela will also be in contention to start following their impressive performances during the midweek Europa League victory over FC Midtjylland.
Midfield
We could see the partnership of Michael Carrick and Ander Herrera be the midfield pairing that will be shielding the back the four. Carrick, who has been involved with countless United vs Arsenal match-ups over the years, will most likely serve as the captain on the day and will be counted upon to inspire the young squad to victory.
Young Andreas Pereira, who recently pledged his future to United could be making the start in the center of midfield attack on Sunday. His impressive performances over the past few matches have certainly warranted him a start in the No. 10 role while Juan Mata may move over to the attacking right side and Memphis Depay will most certainly occupy the left side of Pereira.
Attack
United’s focal point in attack continues to be Anthony Martial while captain, Wayne Rooney remains sidelined with a ongoing knee injury. With Euro 2016 just around the corner, Martial will certainly look to impress against his French counterpart Olivier Giroud when the two go head to head at Old Trafford.
Young Marcus Rashford grabbed a brace during the midweek 5-1 victory over FC Midtjylland and he is certain to feature in some capacity in the clash with Arsenal.
(4-2-3-1)
Via – Lineup Builder
