Manchester United’s Predicted Lineup vs. Fulham: Anticipated XI for Premier League Opener

As the Premier League season kicks off, Manchester United is set to face Fulham in their opening match at Craven Cottage. The Red Devils, under the management of Erik ten Hag, are eager to start the season strong and showcase their new signings and tactical adjustments. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing with anticipation as they predict the lineup ten Hag will deploy for this crucial opening fixture.

Manchester United had a busy pre-season, which saw them take on various opponents across different continents. The club’s pre-season tour included matches in the United States, where they faced Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Borussia Dortmund, among others. These matches gave ten Hag the opportunity to experiment with different formations and assess the performance of both seasoned players and new signings.

Despite mixed results in pre-season, ten Hag expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness for the Premier League. “Pre-season is about building fitness and getting everyone in the right mindset. I’m happy with the progress we’ve made, and I believe we’re ready for the challenges ahead,” ten Hag said in a recent press conference.

Goalkeeper: André Onana
Manchester United’s new No. 1, André Onana, is expected to start between the sticks. The Cameroonian international, signed from Inter Milan, has impressed during pre-season with his shot-stopping abilities and distribution skills. Onana’s composure and experience at the highest level make him a key asset for United as they aim to solidify their defense.

Right-Back: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is likely to retain his position at right-back. Known for his defensive prowess and one-on-one tackling, Wan-Bissaka has been working on improving his attacking contributions, which will be crucial against a Fulham side that likes to exploit wide areas.

Center-Back: Raphaël Varane
The experienced Raphaël Varane is set to marshal the defense alongside Lisandro Martínez. Varane’s leadership and ability to read the game will be vital in keeping Fulham’s attackers at bay.

Center-Back: Lisandro Martínez
Lisandro Martínez is expected to partner Varane in central defense. The Argentine international, who became a fan favorite last season, offers tenacity and composure on the ball, which complements Varane’s experience.

Left-Back: Luke Shaw
Luke Shaw is likely to start at left-back. Shaw’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, especially with his overlapping runs and crosses, makes him a key player in ten Hag’s system.

Central Midfield: Casemiro
Casemiro will anchor the midfield in his usual defensive role. The Brazilian has been crucial in breaking up opposition play and providing stability in the middle of the park. His experience and leadership will be essential in controlling the tempo of the game.

Central Midfield: Mason Mount
New signing Mason Mount is expected to make his Premier League debut for United in a box-to-box role. Mount’s energy, vision, and ability to link up play between the defense and attack will be crucial in breaking down Fulham’s defense.

Attacking Midfield: Bruno Fernandes (Captain)
Bruno Fernandes, the newly appointed club captain, is expected to operate in the No. 10 role. Fernandes’ creativity, passing range, and goal-scoring ability make him the heartbeat of United’s attack. His leadership on the pitch will also be vital as he wears the captain’s armband for the first time in a Premier League opener.

Right Wing: Antony
Antony is predicted to start on the right wing. The Brazilian winger will look to use his pace and dribbling skills to trouble Fulham’s defense. Antony’s ability to cut inside and shoot with his left foot adds an extra dimension to United’s attacking threat.

Left Wing: Marcus Rashford
Marcus Rashford is set to start on the left wing, where he thrived last season. Rashford’s pace, directness, and finishing ability make him one of United’s most potent attacking threats. His partnership with Luke Shaw on the left flank will be key to creating goal-scoring opportunities.

Striker: Rasmus Højlund
Rasmus Højlund, another of United’s summer signings, is expected to lead the line. The Danish striker, known for his physical presence and clinical finishing, will be looking to make an immediate impact in his Premier League debut. Højlund’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play will be crucial in United’s attacking build-up.

Erik ten Hag is likely to set up his team in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a system that allows United to be solid defensively while providing the flexibility to attack with width and pace. Casemiro and Mount will form the double pivot, with Mount given the license to advance and support Fernandes in the attacking third.

The wide players, Rashford and Antony, will be tasked with stretching Fulham’s defense, while Højlund will look to occupy the center-backs and create space for Fernandes to exploit. Ten Hag’s focus will be on maintaining possession, pressing high up the pitch, and transitioning quickly from defense to attack.

There are some concerns regarding player availability for the match. [Insert names if applicable] have been dealing with injuries during pre-season, and their fitness will be assessed closer to the matchday. However, ten Hag has a deep squad at his disposal, and he is confident that whoever steps onto the pitch will be ready to perform.

Manchester United’s opening match against Fulham is highly anticipated as fans look forward to seeing how the team has progressed under Erik ten Hag and how the new signings will integrate into the squad. With a strong lineup expected to be fielded, United will be aiming for a convincing victory to set the tone for the rest of the season.