Coming live from Old Trafford, Manchester United community shield final in jeopardy as two star players ruled out and won’t be available for selection against Manchester city. “This is not what I planned but this is also football you prepare for the worst. This is of a big disadvantage to me and my squad, I don’t know how it will be but we would give our all”. Confirmed, Two crucial United Stars won’t be available for selection against Manchester city in the community shield final.
Manchester United kick off their season with a showdown against Manchester City in the Community Shield this afternoon, renewing the rivalry from May’s FA Cup final at Wembley. Erik ten Hag is aiming for a third consecutive trophy as he begins a pivotal season, which will require significant enhancements across the squad.
Both sides will be without key players, with United grappling with ongoing defensive injuries and some of City’s stars expected to return from their vacations next week.
Here’s a look at how Ten Hag might set up his team for this final pre-Premier League fixture:
**Goalkeeper – Onana**
Andre Onana, who played in all but one match during his inaugural season as United’s goalkeeper, has been a standout during pre-season. The Cameroon international might adopt a more adventurous playing style in his second season at Old Trafford, but he needs to refine other aspects of his game.
**Defence – Dalot, Evans, Martinez, Amass**
Diogo Dalot, returning late to training, is set to remain as the primary right-back, particularly with Aaron Wan-Bissaka uncertain for this match. On the left, Luke Shaw is unlikely to feature, having only recently resumed training.
Young Harry Amass, aged 17, could make his debut as United’s 251st academy graduate after a solid pre-season. With Leny Yoro out for three months and Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof also doubtful, Ten Hag’s centre-back options are limited to Lisandro Martinez and Jonny Evans.
**Midfield – Casemiro, Mainoo, Fernandes**
Casemiro, who has received minimal transfer interest, will likely stay at United and has featured in all of their pre-season matches. Kobbie Mainoo, a key player in Ten Hag’s midfield after a stellar breakout season, might start the campaign in the first XI. Should Mainoo be introduced later, either Mason Mount or Scott McTominay could partner Casemiro behind Bruno Fernandes. Despite not participating in pre-season due to Euro 2024, Fernandes will be a pivotal figure throughout the season.
**Attack – Amad, Rashford, Zirkzee**
Ten Hag faces a selection dilemma for the right-wing position, considering options like Amad, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Facundo Pellistri. Amad, having impressed during pre-season, is favored for a strong season. Marcus Rashford is expected to start on the left, continuing his impactful pre-season form. With Rasmus Hojlund sidelined for six weeks due to a hamstring injury, ÂŁ36.5 million signing Joshua Zirkzee is poised for his first start for United.
