Man Utd team news ahead of the Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid
Man Utd team news ahead of the Champions League tie against Atletico Madrid as Ralf Rangnick eyes four changes.
When picking the team to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last 16 first leg on Wednesday evening, Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick could make four or more changes.
One player has already been confirmed as a no-show, while several more could return after starting the weekend’s derby against Leeds United on the bench.
Man Utd team news, expected lineup
Goalkeeper-De Gea
The Spaniard has made the most saves in the Premier League this season, and he’s expected to retain his spot.
Defence – Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Shaw
United are set to replace Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is more defensively focused, with Diogo Dalot, who is more offensively oriented.
Raphael Varane, who started on the bench at Elland Road, is expected to join him back to the team.
After ending United’s corner drought at the weekend, Harry Maguire should be in line to partner the four-time Champions League winner in the starting lineup.
With two changes from the backline that started against Leeds, Luke Shaw may complete Rangnick’s preferred defensive quartet.
Midfield – McTominay, Fred, Fernandes
Scott McTominay and Paul Pogbaare are certainly in for retaining their starting berth, but Fred nabbed an impressive goal after coming off the bench against Leeds.
If Rangnick wish to retain play tight until the return leg at Old Trafford, he could prefer the Brazilian’s work ethic in midfield.
Bruno Fernandes is almost set to play a more aggressive position than the aforementioned combination, with the goal of releasing the dynamic trio in front of him.
Attack – Elanga, Ronaldo, Sancho
After Rangnick confirmed Edinson Cavani’s continued injured absence during Tuesday’s news conference, Cristiano Ronaldo is almost certain to start in the middle.
Jadon Sancho, who has improved dramatically since his stuttering start at Old Trafford, is also certain to keep his place, and his two deft assists against Leeds should only contribute to his upward trajectory.
Jesse Lingard was generally unproductive on the right wing on Sunday, while Marcus Rashford sat out. Meanwhile, Anthony Elanga took use of his opportunity after coming off the bench, overcoming a hostile environment to score United’s fourth goal before shushing the fans.
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