Manchester United vs Fulham: How Erik ten Hag could lineup in first Premier League game If Manchester United don’t beat Fulham with this team, then it will surely be a long season for everything both holy and unholy attached to the club.
As the 2024/25 Premier League season gets underway, Manchester United, led by Erik ten Hag, will begin their journey with a home match against Fulham at Old Trafford this Friday night. Fulham has been active in the summer transfer market, bringing in several intriguing new players, which could pose additional challenges for United in their opening fixture.
Manchester United may face some difficulties due to injuries that have sidelined a few key players, but the overall depth and quality of the squad should still give them a good chance of securing a win in front of their home supporters. The importance of starting the season with a victory is underscored by the memory of their previous meeting with Fulham at Old Trafford, where United suffered a disappointing loss.
Before speculating on Manchester United’s potential lineup for the match against Fulham, it’s crucial to consider the current state of the squad, including both new arrivals and departures. The Red Devils have strengthened their team with several significant signings, including Leny Yoro from Lille, Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich. On the flip side, important departures include Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has joined West Ham, Donny van de Beek to Girona, Mason Greenwood to Marseille, and Alvaro Carreras to Benfica.
Currently, Manchester United is still in negotiations for the potential signing of Manuel Ugarte from PSG, with discussions ongoing about Jadon Sancho possibly being considered as a replacement for Neymar at PSG. This transfer is expected to be finalized soon. Additionally, Scott McTominay remains linked with a possible exit from the club, while Bruno Fernandes has recently extended his contract with Manchester United until 2027.
**Projected Manchester United Lineup vs Fulham**
Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui are fit and ready to play against Fulham, alongside Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez. This reinforces the defensive lineup, although I would recommend considering Diogo Dalot for the left-back position instead of Martinez. Despite Martinez’s solid defensive showing against Manchester City, his contributions in attack were limited. Dalot would provide a more balanced approach, offering better support in forward play. Given Maguire’s current fitness concerns, De Ligt should partner with Martinez in central defense. As for Harry Amass, it’s unlikely he will feature in the season opener after not playing against a weakened Manchester City in the Community Shield.
In the midfield, Casemiro, who delivered strong performances against Manchester City, should be paired with Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Mason Mount’s display against Manchester City was less impactful due to positional issues.
In attack, Alejandro Garnacho is expected to return to the starting eleven after his impressive performance off the bench against Manchester City. Amad Diallo is likely to be positioned on the right wing, with Marcus Rashford leading the line. Hojlund’s absence due to injury and Zirkzee’s lack of match fitness mean they are unlikely to feature in this game.
**Manchester United vs Fulham Prediction**
Both teams will be eager to start their season with a win. Historically, Manchester United has a strong record in their opening league matches, making a victory for the Red Devils likely. I predict Manchester United will come out on top, with Alejandro Garnacho expected to score. Based on the current squad and recent form, a 2-1 win for Manchester United seems likely, with Garnacho and Rashford both finding the back of the net.
**Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Fulham:**
**Formation: 4-2-3-1**
**Starting XI:**
– **Goalkeeper:** Andre Onana
– **Right Back:** Noussair Mazraoui
– **Center Backs:** Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez
– **Left Back:** Diogo Dalot (for a more balanced approach)
– **Central Midfielders:** Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
– **Attacking Midfielder:** Bruno Fernandes
– **Right Wing:** Amad Diallo
– **Left Wing:** Alejandro Garnacho
– **Striker:** Marcus Rashford
**Bench:**
– Tom Heaton
– Harry Maguire
– Luke Shaw (if fit)
– Scott McTominay
– Mason Mount
– Jadon Sancho (if available)
– Joshua Zirkzee (if fit)
