Erik ten Hag is expected to deploy a similar lineup against FC Copenhagen as he did against Fulham on Saturday, with Manchester United sorely needing three points in the Champions League. However, three players in particular must not be benched at Parken Stadium if United is to avoid a humiliating Group A exit.
Express Sport has identified the trio who must maintain their spots among unrivaled starters such as Andre Onana, Bruno Fernandes, and Rasmus Hojlund in the Danish city on Wednesday night.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
On Saturday, Aaron Wan-Bissaka made his first start since September and showed Ten Hag what he had been missing during his injured absence.
The 25-year-old right-back allowed Fulham scarcely a sniff down his flank, not being dribbled past once, and was significantly involved in United’s efforts.
Diogo Dalot played well at left back, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Ten Hag chose him over Sergio Reguilon again against Copenhagen.
Wan-Bissaka, on the other hand, started the season as his first-choice right-back and should keep that place in midweek.
Harry Maguire
Along with Wan-Bissaka, Harry Maguire’s unexpected comeback continued in good form on the banks of the River Thames. The 30-year-old overcame early injury concerns to put on a spectacular performance.
Maguire has gone from being Ten Hag’s fifth-choice center-back to an unstoppable force at the heart of his defense.
He made nine clearances, completed six long balls, and won 10 of his 13 duels, including eight out of ten in the air, against Fulham.
At the moment, the former Manchester United captain is helping the club both defensively and offensively. He simply must maintain his position. The most pressing concern is who replaces Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane.
Alejandro Garnacho
If Marcus Rashford returns to fitness before Wednesday, he should travel to Copenhagen and start on the left wing.
But Alejandro Garnacho was so bright last time out, attempting five take-ons, drawing three fouls and creating two chances.
The 19-year-old winger must start, and Ten Hag would be wise to experiment with him on the right, dropping the impactless Antony to the bench.
Hojlund has been starved of service as of late. Having a right-footed player on that flank capable of beating his man could work wonders for Garnacho and his fellow young forward.
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