After losing in the FA Cup final the previous season, Manchester United is seeking retribution.
Erik ten Hag could leave Casemiro out of his starting XI against Man City (Image: Getty)
When making his most significant team decision of the season, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag may decide to bench Casemiro in the FA Cup final. Even though Ten Hag appears destined to leave Old Trafford regardless, the Red Devils can end 2023–24 on a high note as they look to exact revenge for last season’s 2-1 loss to Manchester City at Wembley and secure a spot in the Europa League.
Man Utd’s anticipated lineup (4-2-2-2):
Onana, the goalkeeper
Altay Bayindir, the backup goalkeeper, has had a difficult first season because he hasn’t been able to play in the major games, let alone the early stages of cup competitions. The Cameroonian has established himself as United’s number one goalkeeper, so the Turkish stopper has little chance of unseating him on Saturday.
Defense: Martinez, Dalot, Varane, and Wan-Bissaka
After lacking defensive options all season, United has finally found a starting lineup that includes their first choice back four, even though Diogo Dalot is still playing on his unfavorable left side while Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw are out.
The biggest gains are in central defence, where Raphael Varane could make his final appearance against City and Lisandro Martinez is back to full fitness. Aaron Wan-Bissaka can find room on the right, but Casemiro, the stand-in center back who might be left out against the Sky Blues, might not have any.
Protective midfielders: Amrabat and Mainoo
For much of this season, Sofyan Amrabat was unable to purchase a start; however, a string of performances in the final weeks of the Premier League appear certain to secure him a coveted place in the starting lineup at Wembley. One of United’s best players so far this season, Kobbie Mainoo’s smooth passing could provide some control over a confident City team.
Midfield attackers Fernandes and McTominay
If Bruno Fernandes and Scott McTominay are selected to roam in front of United’s two deeper-lying stars, then Fernandes, the captain, will have to step up and perform in attacking midfield. The goal threat posed by the two could be extremely helpful, considering that United played Brighton last weekend without a designated central striker.
Attackers: Garnacho, Amad
Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho could be chosen to lead the line for United at Wembley, as they did against the Seagulls, because they have the quickness and cunning to score on the counterattack.
Rasmus Hojlund scored the game’s last goal at the Amex Stadium, but it seems more likely that the Danish international will start the match from the bench because Brighton’s victory was probably a tactical warm-up for it.
