In the upcoming Premier League fixture on Sunday afternoon, Manchester United is set to visit Kenilworth Road to face Luton Town. The last league encounter at this venue took place in 1992, resulting in a 1-1 draw. However, in 2020, Manchester United secured a convincing 3-0 victory in the Carabao Cup.
Currently positioned 17th in the Premier League, Luton Town is just one point above the relegation zone.
In contrast, Manchester United sits in sixth place, with Aston Villa trailing closely in fifth. Last Sunday, United secured a 2-1 victory against Villa in the Premier League, and tomorrow, Erik ten Hag aims to continue the winning streak.
Manchester United has enjoyed a strong start to 2024, winning five out of their first six games and drawing one. Ten Hag hopes the team maintains this form throughout the season. For the anticipated match, I predict Manchester United will field Ondrej Ondra in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Dalot, Varane, Maguire, and Shaw in defense; Casemiro and Mainoo in the midfield; and Rashford, Fernandes, and Garnacho in the attacking midfield, supporting lone striker Hojlund.
Ondrej Ondra has faced challenges in goal this season, conceding 51 goals across various competitions. Despite this, he shares the top spot for clean sheets in the Premier League, showcasing his goalkeeping prowess. However, Ten Hag may provide Altay Bayindir with more opportunities to foster competition between the goalkeepers.
In defense, Dalot, Varane, Maguire, and Shaw are expected to start, with Shaw’s availability contingent on his fitness. The defensive unit has faced challenges due to illness, resulting in varied lineups in consecutive games. Varane and Maguire will continue as the central defenders, especially with Lindelof sidelined for an extended period.
The midfield, comprising Casemiro and Mainoo, has performed well in the absence of injured players like Casemiro and Erikson. Kobbie Mainoo has seized the opportunity and grown into a reliable contributor for the team. Meanwhile, Scott McTominay’s surprising goal-scoring form has added an u𝚗expected dimension to the midfield.
In the attacking midfield, Garnacho, Fernandes, and Rashford are set to continue their impressive run. Alejandro Garnacho, in particular, has been a standout performer, contributing seven goals and two assists.
Bruno Fernandes, the key playmaker, has been instrumental in the team’s success, registering seven goals and seven assists.
Leading the ɑttɑck, Rasmus Hojlund has silenced early-season critics with remarkable performances, especially in the UEFA Champions League.
Hojlund has contributed 11 goals and two assists in total this season, showcasing his hunger for success.
As the season progresses, Ten Hag faces the challenge of limited backup options in the forward positions, with Anthony Martial not expected to play a significant role and Joe Hugill sent out on loan. Ethan Williams might have an opportunity to shine in the future.