(4-2-3-1) Lisandro Martinez returns with two Academy players in the XI”, Predicted Man United line up vs Nottingham Forest – As Ruben Amorim makes Crucial Chido Obi Decision for the first time.
Manchester United could see up to seven players return to first-team action as club football resumes next week. Due to their early exit from the FA Cup, they are among 13 Premier League teams without a fixture this weekend, as the competition takes center stage for the quarter-finals. Instead, their next match is scheduled for Tuesday when they visit the City Ground to face an in-form Nottingham Forest side.
The injury crisis that has plagued the squad may soon ease, offering hope for a stronger finish in the league and a competitive run in the Europa League. According to reports, several players are nearing their return, with their availability for the Forest game hinging on their progress in training over the weekend.
Among those nearing a comeback, few will be as eagerly anticipated as Kobbie Mainoo, who has been sidelined for the past two months. Amorim expects him to be available soon, alongside Luke Shaw. Mason Mount, who returned to the squad against Leicester City before the break but remained an unused substitute, is also in contention.
Defensive reinforcements could be on the way as well. With Lisandro Martínez ruled out for the season, Manchester United have been short at the back. Harry Maguire, who was left out against Leicester as a precaution, is expected to be available. Ayden Heaven, despite leaving the King Power Stadium in a protective boot, is set to resume training this week. Leny Yoro is also closing in on a return, while backup goalkeeper Tom Heaton could be an important addition with Altay Bayindir unavailable and André Onana having been a doubt in recent matches.
On the international front, Manchester United were relieved that many of their players completed their national team duties by Sunday, avoiding the usual fatigue associated with midweek returns. Five of their players featured in Portugal’s dramatic UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark, emerging unscathed. Patrick Dorgu, who had been suspended, is now available for selection.
The scheduling of international fixtures has been favorable, allowing Amorim sufficient time to reintegrate returning players before the Nottingham Forest match. Normally, a quick turnaround between Tuesday and Saturday fixtures poses challenges, particularly for those returning from distant locations such as South America or Asia. However, the extended rest period will be beneficial this time. Manuel Ugarte, who played for Uruguay in Bolivia, and Noussair Mazraoui, who had a late kickoff with Morocco, will have enough recovery time before club duties resume.
