Manchester United XI vs Everton: Rúben Amorim to make five changes as Kobbie Mainoo returns

Rúben Amorim is expected to make five changes to his XI as Manchester United prepare to face Everton in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

Rúben Amorim is preparing for his second Premier League match as Manchester United‘s head coach, as they welcome Everton to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.

Amorim’s tenure has begun with a 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town and a thrilling 3-2 win over Bodo/Glimt, building on the momentum established under Ruud van Nistelrooy.

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Sunday’s clash marks Amorim’s first Premier League outing at Old Trafford, following his debut in the dugout at the stadium on Thursday. With points desperately needed, United will aim to deliver a decisive performance.

Currently sitting 12th in the league with 16 points, United are six behind Arsenal and Chelsea in the battle for a top-four Champions League place.

Five changes expected

While André Onana will start his 51st Premier League game in a row, Amorim is expected to rotate his wing-backs for the upcoming tie against Everton.

His back three of Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, and Lisandro Martínez will likely stay the same due to a lack of other options, but Tyrell Malacia and Antony are likely to be replaced.

Amorim spoke of how he knows Diogo Dalot’s best position is on the right-hand side, and he may choose to play his compatriot at right wing-back, while Luke Shaw could replace Malacia.

Malacia returned to action for the first time in 550 days against Bodo/Glimt, but Shaw is yet to have his first start under Amorim, and the Everton tie would be a perfect chance to see him in the left wing-back role.

Kobbie Mainoo has yet to receive minutes under 39 years old in midfield. Still, with Amorim’s rotation policy set to kick in again, he could partner Casemiro in the middle of the park as Manuel Ugarte drops to the bench.

Fernandes played next to Ugarte in midweek but is likely to be given a more attacking role on the weekend, with Alejandro Garnacho potentially bowing out after starting the last two ties.

In the attacking midfield role alongside Fernandes, Amad Diallo may be given his chance to shine. Rasmus Højlund is potentially the preferred option at striker, although Amorim may choose to substitute the Dane after 60 or 70 minutes to keep him fresh.

Man United expected XI

Onana, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martínez, Dalot, Casemiro, Mainoo, Shaw, Amad, Fernandes, Højlund.

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