[3-4-2-1] Paul Pogba return and start, Two other new signings start and captain changed- Manchester United predicted lineups vs Tottenham Hotspur as Paul return is confirmed..

Paul Pogba’s potential return to Manchester United and his involvement in a match against Tottenham Hotspur is purely speculative. Pogba left the club in 2022 and is currently serving a suspension for a doping violation, with no official confirmation of a reduced ban to 18 months.

 

Instead, a more realistic approach to predicting Manchester United’s lineup for their upcoming clash with Tottenham should be based on the squad’s current status and Erik ten Hag’s recent tactical choices.

 

Formation: 4-2-3-1

 

Predicted Starting XI:

 

Goalkeeper:

 

Andre Onana – A key figure in United’s defensive setup, valued for his shot-stopping ability and distribution.

 

 

Defenders:

 

Diogo Dalot (Right-Back) – A reliable defensive presence who also contributes in attack.

 

Raphaël Varane (Center-Back) – Brings experience and composure to the backline.

 

Lisandro Martínez (Center-Back) – Offers ball-playing ability and tenacity, fitting well into ten Hag’s system.

 

Luke Shaw (Left-Back) – Versatile enough to operate as both a full-back and an auxiliary center-back when needed.

 

 

Midfielders:

 

Casemiro (Defensive Midfielder) – Essential for breaking up play and dictating tempo.

 

Kobbie Mainoo (Central Midfielder) – A promising young talent who could feature if ten Hag opts for energy in midfield.

 

 

Attacking Midfielders:

 

Bruno Fernandes (Central Attacking Midfielder) – The team’s creative spark, orchestrating attacks from midfield.

 

Marcus Rashford (Left Wing/Forward) – Dangerous with his pace and finishing ability, capable of playing centrally if needed.

 

Alejandro Garnacho (Right Wing) – If available, his speed and directness could be crucial on the flank.

 

 

Striker:

 

Rasmus Højlund (Center Forward) – A physical presence who continues to develop as a goal-scoring threat.

 

 

Tactical Approach:

 

Erik ten Hag typically favors a flexible 4-2-3-1 setup, allowing full-backs to provide width while maintaining a compact midfield. Casemiro would play a key role in shielding the defense, while Fernandes would be the primary playmaker. The wide attackers would be tasked with stretching Tottenham’s defense, either by delivering crosses or cutting inside to take shots.

 

Possession-based play, quick transitions, and utilizing space on the flanks would likely be the focus, with defensive stability ensured through Casemiro’s presence in midfield.

 

Potential Adjustments:

 

1. Defensive Considerations: Lisandro Martínez is returning from injury, so if he isn’t fully fit, Jonny Evans or Victor Lindelöf could partner Varane.

 

 

2. Midfield Choices: If Mainoo starts, his ability to carry the ball forward will be key, but Mason Mount could also be an option for a more attacking setup.

 

 

3. Right-Wing Selection: Antony’s inconsistency might see Garnacho preferred on the right, though Amad Diallo could also get a chance if ten Hag opts for a technical winger.

 

 

4. Højlund vs. Rashford: Depending on Tottenham’s defensive line, Rashford could be deployed centrally to exploit space, allowing Garnacho and another winger to attack from wide positions.

 

 

 

This lineup is based on current squad availability and ten Hag’s tactical patterns, though last-minute changes due to injuries or form could still alter the final selection. Let me know if you’d like

an update on team news or tactical insights closer to the match.