Anticipating Erik ten Hag’s lineup choices often presents intriguing challenges, but as Manchester United prepares to face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, nearly every position on the field poses a question mark.
Ten Hag typically fields a lineup that closely resembles his strongest XI, regardless of the competition or opponent. In this Carabao Cup encounter at Old Trafford, he aims to build upon the momentum of the team’s first win in four games. However, this decision comes with its own set of complexities, especially given the plethora of injuries and a demanding fixture schedule.
Between the goalposts, there’s a case for granting new signing Altay Bayindir a debut, potentially in line with any assurances made when he joined the club. It also serves as a valuable opportunity for him to gain experience in case he’s needed for more significant matches. On the flip side, Andre Onana is still in the process of acclimating to his defense, making it premature to rest him.
In all likelihood, Ten Hag’s inclination toward fielding the “strongest XI” will prevail, and Onana will retain his place.
With injuries sidelining Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia, coupled with doubts surrounding Harry Maguire, Sergio Reguilon, and Lisandro Martinez, United’s defensive options are thin. There aren’t any prominent youth prospects clamoring for their debut, although Rhys Bennett, returning from injury, has caught Ten Hag’s attention.
While Reguilon’s recent hamstring issue raises concerns, Ten Hag has indicated it might be related to illness, offering hope for his return at left-back, with Diogo Dalot occupying the right flank.
The status of Martinez and Maguire’s fitness remains uncertain, making it challenging to forecast the central defensive partnership. Despite Jonny Evans’ impressive performance against Burnley, a partnership of Varane and Lindelof appears stronger on paper.
Midfield presents more choices. Mason Mount’s return is anticipated, and Kobbie Mainoo has resumed training. Donny van de Beek, Dan Gore, and Hannibal are on the periphery of the first team, with Hannibal’s impressive Premier League start on Saturday. Sofyan Amrabat made a brief cameo debut in that match, while the established midfielders Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, and Scott McTominay add further depth.
Resting Casemiro seems plausible, providing Amrabat an opportunity for his full debut alongside Eriksen. If fit, Mainoo could see minutes from the bench.
Captain Bruno Fernandes rarely misses a game, likely maintaining his role in the favored number 10 position.
Considering the possibility of resting Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Anthony Martial could step in. This leaves the right-wing position, with Mason Mount potentially fit for the role, or a potential second chance for Facundo Pellistri. Alternatively, a formation shift could involve McTominay reinforcing the midfield, possibly at the expense of one of the wingers.