Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez will start as Manchester United’s centre backs in the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley today.
The pair were the backbone of United’s season last year but injuries this term have meant their time together has been negligible.
Another star of last season whose 2023/24 has been a disaster, Marcus Rashford, also gets the nod over Amad Diallo on the wing.
This means Alejandro Garnacho will switch to the right.
Rashford’s inclusion will cause quite a stir after being overlooked in the games leading up to the final. Ten Hag will be hoping that the 26 year old’s experience and big match mentality will be enough to find his form in the right place at the right time.
Andre Onana will be in goal. Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka will be the United full backs.
Kobbie Mainoo is joined in midfield by Sofyan Amrabat, with Scott McTominay also included. There is no place in the team for Casemiro, as predicted yesterday.
Bruno Fernandes may play in the false nine role, with no place for Rasmus Hojlund.
It will be a bitter blow for Hojlund, who is on the bench. However, Ten Hag clearly wants to pack the midfield and try to keep things tight against Guardiola’s men, bringing on the fast forwards if needed against tired legs in the second half.
Joining Hojlund on the bench are Altay Bayindir, Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof, Willy Kambwala, Amad, Christian Eriksen, Mason Mount and Antony. Casemiro was initially named on the bench but was withdrawn through injury.
Say hello to your #FACupFinal Reds
COME ON UNITED!!! #MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 25, 2024
Today’s match kicks off at 3pm.
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