Predicted XI: [4-2-3-1] McNeill, Eriksen & Garnacho to form Man Utd attack vs Rayo Vallecano

Erik ten Hag has confirmed that the players that started against Atletico will be unavailable for Sunday’s encounter, which includes David De Gea, Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Tyrell Malacia, Fred, Scott McTominay, Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, Anthony Elanga, and Anthony Martial.

The Dutchman also suggested that players who came on as substitutes in that game might start or appear in the contest on Sunday. There will be additional players in the group, including some who traveled to Thailand and Australia, as well as some younger players. Cristiano Ronaldo is likely to join the group and play at Old Trafford.

It remains to be seen whether this is a U-Turn by the Portuguese forward or a return to life at United. This encounter at Old Trafford, on the other hand, should be a nice one for the fans to get them ready for a week when outcomes start to matter, whereas pre-season is all about fitness and getting everything ready for the new season.

 

                  Predicted Manchester United Starting XI – 4-2-3-1

                                                                                    Heaton;

                                                                  Laird, Bailly, Martinez, Shaw;

                                                                          Garner, Savage;

                                                                      Amad, Eriksen, Garnacho;

                                                                                  McNeill

 

Substitutes
With several junior players eligible for an appearance at Old Trafford, Ten Hag may make a few changes in this encounter. With Heaton at the helm, the likes of Matej Kovar and perhaps Nathan Bishop may be called upon at some point during the game. It’s probable that Kovar or Bishop will be handed minutes right away.

In defense, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Alex Telles, and Raphael Varane might all be given opportunities, with some younger players possibly available. It would be nice to see Donny van de Beek, Hannibal Mejbri, Shola Shoretire, Zidane Iqbal, and Isak Hansen-Aaroen in the midfield.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be the key player that supporters want to see in the attack, even if it is his final encounter at the Theatre of Dreams, with rumors linking him to a departure. If Jadon Sancho has recovered from his illness, he and Tahith Chong may be engaged at some stage. Facundo Pellistri appeared to twist his ankle on Saturday, so I doubt he’ll play.