Manchester United is gearing up for its Premier League opener against Fulham at Old Trafford, with new signings Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui expected to make their debuts. Erik ten Hag’s squad is eager to start the season on a high note after suffering a narrow penalty shootout defeat to Manchester City in the Community Shield last weekend.
De Ligt and Mazraoui, who both arrived from Bayern Munich this summer, have been included in the matchday squad. Ten Hag has confirmed that the duo could feature in tonight’s game, marking their first appearance in the Premier League.
United faces some defensive challenges, particularly on the left side. With Luke Shaw sidelined due to injury until after the international break and Tyrell Malacia also unavailable, the club is running low on full-back options. Additionally, Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s transfer to West Ham has left United even more short-handed in defense.
There is speculation that Mazraoui might be deployed as a left-back. Alternatively, Diogo Dalot could switch from his usual right-back position to cover the left side, while Lisandro Martinez may also be asked to fill in. Ten Hag addressed the situation, stating, “We were looking and we can sort problems over the left side.”
Meanwhile, in the attack, young talent Alejandro Garnacho is pushing for a starting role after impressing as a substitute in the Community Shield. If Garnacho starts, Marcus Rashford could move to center-forward, with Garnacho on the left wing and Amad Diallo on the right. This reshuffle could see Mason Mount step aside to allow Bruno Fernandes to return to his preferred No. 10 position.
