Manchester United vs Fulham: How Erik ten Hag could lineup in first Premier League game If Manchester United don’t beat Fulham with this team, then it will surely be a long season for everything both holy and unholy attached to the club.
As the 2024/25 Premier League season begins, Manchester United, under Erik ten Hag, will host Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday night for their opening match. Fulham’s strategic signings during the summer transfer window could present a tough challenge for United as they aim to start their campaign on a high note.
Injuries have sidelined a few key players, but Manchester United’s squad depth and quality should still allow them to perform well in front of their home crowd. The desire to win is intensified by the memory of their last encounter with Fulham at Old Trafford, where United faced a disappointing loss.
Before predicting the lineup for this match, it’s important to consider Manchester United’s current squad, including new signings and departures. The team has strengthened its ranks with the additions of Leny Yoro from Lille, Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, and Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich. Meanwhile, significant departures include Aaron Wan-Bissaka to West Ham, Donny van de Beek to Girona, Mason Greenwood to Marseille, and Alvaro Carreras to Benfica.
Negotiations are still ongoing for the potential signing of Manuel Ugarte from PSG, with Jadon Sancho possibly moving to PSG as Neymar’s replacement. This deal is expected to conclude soon. Additionally, Scott McTominay might leave the club, while Bruno Fernandes has secured his stay at Manchester United until 2027.
**Possible Manchester United Lineup Against Fulham**
Erik ten Hag has confirmed that both Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui are ready to play against Fulham, alongside Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez, solidifying the defense. However, Diogo Dalot might be a better choice for the left-back position over Martinez due to his more balanced defensive and offensive capabilities. Despite Maguire’s fitness concerns, De Ligt is likely to pair with Martinez at the center of defense. Harry Amass, who wasn’t featured against a weakened Manchester City in the Community Shield, is unlikely to play in the season opener.
In midfield, Casemiro, who had strong performances against Manchester City, should be joined by Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Mason Mount’s performance was hindered by positional issues, which might affect his place in the starting lineup.
For the attack, Alejandro Garnacho is expected to start after an impressive substitute appearance against Manchester City. Amad Diallo should take the right-wing position, with Marcus Rashford leading the line upfront. Due to Hojlund’s injury and Zirkzee’s lack of match fitness, neither is likely to feature in this match.
**Match Prediction: Manchester United vs Fulham**
Both teams will be eager to secure a win in their first match of the season. Historically, Manchester United has performed well in their opening games, and a victory seems likely. A 2-1 win for Manchester United is predicted, with Garnacho and Rashford expected to find the net.
**Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Fulham:**
**Formation: 4-2-3-1**
**Starting XI:**
– **Goalkeeper:** Andre Onana
– **Right Back:** Noussair Mazraoui
– **Center Backs:** Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez
– **Left Back:** Diogo Dalot (for balanced defense and attack)
– **Central Midfielders:** Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
– **Attacking Midfielder:** Bruno Fernandes
– **Right Wing:** Amad Diallo
– **Left Wing:** Alejandro Garnacho
– **Striker:** Marcus Rashford
**Bench:**
– Tom Heaton
– Harry Maguire
– Luke Shaw (if fit)
– Scott McTominay
– Mason Mount
– Jadon Sancho (if available)
– Joshua Zirkzee (if fit)
