Home » Google News » [Image] Mata to start? Predicted Man United XI to face Astana in Europa League

[Image] Mata to start? Predicted Man United XI to face Astana in Europa League

Manchester United vs Astana prediction: Manchester line-up

Group leaders Manchester United visit Kazakhstani champions Astana for their Europa League Group L match at the Astana Arena on Thursday.

United have had a comfortable outing so far, having already qualified for the knockouts with three wins from four games so far. They remain the only side in the group to not concede any goal as of now.

Astana, on the other hand, have had a disastrous campaign as they have lost all of their four group matches.

Manchester United players celebrate a goal against Leicester City at Old Trafford. (Getty Images)
Manchester United players celebrate a goal against Leicester City at Old Trafford. (Getty Images)

However, United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer might opt for some changes with as many as eight players in the squad out due to injuries.

Meanwhile, Astana will be hopeful that they could put an end to their four-match winless streak when United face them at home.

Team news

Solskjaer has a long list of injury concerns ahead of the match against Astana. Defenders Eric Bailly, Timothy Fosu-Mensah, Diogo Dalot and Marcos Rojo have all been ruled out due to respective injuries.

In-form midfielder Scott McTominay has an ankle injury and won’t be fit until next month. The same is the case with star player Paul Pogba, whose foot injury has sidelined him for most of the season.

Scott McTominay in action for Manchester United. (Getty Images)
Scott McTominay in action for Manchester United. (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Nemanja Matic and Luke Shaw are back in training. However, they are not completely fit and remain doubtful.

Predicted Man United XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Sergio Romero (GK)

Has been a regular in the Europa League for quite some time now. The Argentine has kept a clean sheet in all the three games he played so far.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (RB)

Has been consistent throughout the season. His exceptional tackling skills at such a young age make him a definite pick.

Manchester United full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Manchester United full-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka. (Getty Images)

Victor Lindelof (CB)

The Swede has started in only one Europa League game this season. However, with Rojo and Bailly injured, Lindelof will be expected to start.

Harry Maguire (CB)

One of the most high-profile names in the squad, Maguire is sure to partner alongside Lindelof. The Englishman though, has still not hit his best form.

Brandon Williams (LB)

The teenager has been impressive of late and even scored a goal against Sheffield United in their last match. Will be given an opportunity once again.

Brandon Williams in action for Manchester United against Rochdale in the Carabao Cup. (Getty Images)
Brandon Williams in action for Manchester United against Rochdale in the Carabao Cup. (Getty Images)

James Garner (CM)

With as many as three midfielders not fully fit, Solskjaer might turn to Garner, who has 2 games under his belt.

Fred (CM)

Fred looks a different player altogether this season and has started in almost every match for United. He could once again be expected to start.

Mason Greenwood (RW)

The youngster has 2 goals from 3 Europa League games and has been equally impressive in the league. Should get a chance to prove his credentials.

United's young striking sensation Mason Greenwood.
United’s young striking sensation Mason Greenwood. (Getty Images)

Juan Mata (CAM)

The veteran playmaker is definitely past his prime and has looked slow on the pitch. Still, Solskjaer might offer him a chance to start.

Marcus Rashford (LW)

Currently United’s man in form across all competitions, Rashford is a threat anywhere in the attack and is a sure pick for any coach.

Read more:

Anthony Martial (ST)   

The Frenchman has scored 2 goals from as many Europa League matches. Has been in decent form in the league and will take up the finisher’s role.