Predicting the Manchester United XI vs Southampton

Midfield and Attack

Manchester United look to be two completely different teams in the Premier League and the Champions League - and this is most evident in their intent and style of play.

They play with more pace, energy and intent in the Champions League, which has resulted in them scoring 12 goals in just 4 games. In the Premier League, however, they have scored just 13 in 8.

A factor that could be responsible for this is new signing Donny van de Beek, who has started most of the Champions League games. The former Ajax player brings more footballing IQ, spatial awareness and slick passing to an otherwise static midfield barring the talismanic Bruno Fernandes. The Dutch international will be confident of getting his first league start since arriving at Old Trafford after his impressive outing in midweek. Paul Pogba is likely to still be out through injury.

Donny van de Beek’s pass map last night. He was absolutely everywhere. [MEN] pic.twitter.com/tb41r7tQ79

— The Man Utd Way (@TheManUtdWay) November 25, 2020

Despite the hectic schedule that awaits the Red Devils in the next 30 days, Ole Gunnar Solskjær will be hesitant to even think of resting Bruno Fernandes as everything good his team does goes through the Portuguese international. He will also be aware of the potent attack possessed by Southampton and will therefore likely choose a defensive midfield pivot of Nemanja Matić and Scott McTominay; which will afford Fred a rest after he played both the games following the international break.

Manchester United v West Bromwich Albion - Premier League

It is in the Manchester United attack that Ole Gunnar Solskjær has plenty of options to choose from. With no fitness issues, no suspensions and no injuries to deal with, Ole can pick any combination in attack, each having a different dynamic.

Given the schedule and teams that await Manchester United, it is likely that Marcus Rashford will be rested at the weekend keeping in mind the huge clash with PSG next week.

The attacking pairing that Ole is likely to select for the weekend is Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani. The Uruguayan impressed in his first start for Manchester United with his brilliant hold up play and off ball movement, enabling the players around him to do damage.

I was actually quite impressed with Edinson Cavani last night. His movement around the box & his link up play with others really stood out for me, it’s just a shame that he couldn’t top it off with a goal. Hopefully the more games he plays his sharpness in front of goal improves.

— Ryan. 🔴 (@Vintage_Utd) November 25, 2020

After a difficult start to the campaign, Martial looked to find form playing from the left in the midweek game. He will likely start in the same position against the Saints.

As mentioned earlier, Donny van de Beek could also start at the weekend but his first league start for Manchester United will have to come at right wing, displacing Juan Mata.

Manchester United Predicted XI: David de Gea, Brandon Williams, Axel Tuanzebe, Harry Maguire and Alex Telles. Scott McTominay, Nemanja Matić and Bruno Fernandes. Donny van de Beek, Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani.