Manchester United have enjoyed a successful pre-season tour so far, most notably with their recent 3-1 win over the European benchmark Barcelona. And with Paris St. Germain up next, Louis van Gaal would be hoping to continue to work on his players’ fitness as he prepares for the Premier League campaign starting next weekend.
Let’s take a look at the possible United lineup expected to take the field against Laurent Blanc’s PSG.
Goalkeeper – David De Gea
The Manchester United No. 1 has been the tabloid’s favorite son this summer as he has been strongly tipped to complete his move to Real Madrid, but with the Spanish giants unwilling to budge on Sergio Ramos, the Spanish shot-stopper seems certain for another season in United’s goal. He will be expected to start against Cavani and co.
Defence – Darmian, Jones, Blind, Shaw.
Matteo Darmian could well prove to be one of United’s most significant coups this transfer window as the versatile full back promises to add stability to a position held by an inconsistent Rafael and the makeshift right back in Antonio Valencia. Phil Jones is the most consistent of United’s centre backs and should start in the backline alongside Daley Blind, who could well be a regular in central defence for the Red Devils this season.
Luke Shaw had an injury riddled first season at Old Trafford but undoubtedly has the potential to become a superstar at Manchester United. The young Englishman should start at left back.
Midfield – Depay, Schneiderlin, Schweinsteiger, Young.
Memphis Depay has eased his way into his United career with a couple of impressive displays in pre-season and should be a regular in the first team down the right flank.
Morgan Schneiderlin had an impressive game at the centre of the park against Barcelona as he added a bit of bite and composure to United’s midfield and the Frenchman could be accompanied by the experienced Bastian Schweinsteiger who is expected to start after missing the previous game with a minor niggle.
Ashley Young has been bright as ever down the left side for United and should feature against the Ligue I Champions.
Forwards – Adnan Januzaj, Wayne Rooney.
Adnan Januzaj has been tipped by Louis van Gaal for a more central role this season and he may well opt for a 4-3-3 with Januzaj in an advanced midfield position which will complement the likes of Schneiderlin and Schweinsteiger. The young Belgian has the pace and ability to trouble the defences and given a regular run in the team, could thrive for United this season.
Wayne Rooney has spoken of his desire to get back to scoring in big numbers for United this season as the central striker and Louis van Gaal seems pretty confident of his captain. This could well be the season Rooney drives United to the title in a position he enjoys playing the most.
