Alejandro Garnacho wing-back, Harry Maguire decision made: Manchester United predicted line-up vs Newcastle

Rúben Amorim may try Alejandro Garnacho as a left wing-back as Manchester United face Newcastle United in the Premier League on Monday evening.

Manchester United are preparing to host Newcastle United at Old Trafford on Monday evening in their final match of 2024, with Rúben Amorim under pressure to steer his side away from 14th place in the Premier League.

A dismal run of three consecutive defeats to Bournemouth, Tottenham Hotspur, and Wolverhampton Wanderers has sparked heavy criticism, with fans growing increasingly frustrated by the team’s lacklustre displays.

Amorim’s 3-4-3 system is still taking shape, but persistent struggles with defending set pieces have been a major stumbling block throughout December.

With the festive fixture schedule in full swing, a home win against Newcastle would provide a much-needed lift to close out the year. However, the Magpies, riding high after a commanding 3-0 victory over Aston Villa earlier in the week, are likely to prove a tough challenge.

Amorim predicted to make four United changes

Amorim may choose to make four changes as Manchester United line-up to face Newcastle on Monday evening, with two enforced due to suspensions.

André Onana is set to start in goal once again, While Noussair Mazraoui should shift from right wing-back to right centre-back in order to give Leny Yoro, whose minutes are still being managed, a rest.

With Matthijs de Ligt having returned following an illness, he may replace Harry Maguire, while Lisandro Martínez remains the only left-footed centre-back in the squad.

In midfield, with Manuel Ugarte suspended, Casemiro is the natural replacement choice, while Kobbie Mainoo may continue in the side, although this depends on whether he’s fit to play after he was spotted limping after the defeat against Wolves.

As for the wing-backs, Diogo Dalot could revert to his natural right-hand side while Alejandro Garnacho could get a chance at left wing-back.

United scored all nine league goals with at least one winger playing as a wing-back, but they failed to score in the competition when both players were full-backs. Garnacho on the left could provide Amorim with a more potent attacking threat.

As for the attacking three positions, it’s assumed Amad Diallo will continue on the right, while Joshua Zirkzee may play on the left simply due to a lack of options otherwise. Although Marcus Rashford has been included in the matchday squad, he will likely be on the bench.

Up front, this would leave Rasmus Højlund as the only viable option.

United predicted XI vs Newcastle

Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martínez, Dalot, Casemiro, Mainoo, Garnacho, Amad, Zirkzee, Højlund.

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