Manchester United expected squad vs FC Porto as Erik ten Hag forced into changes

Erik ten Hag is expected to be forced into changes as Manchester United prepare to face FC Porto in the Europa League on Thursday evening.

Manchester United are shifting their focus to the Europa League after a disappointing run of results in the Premier League this season.

Currently sitting 13th in the table, the club are only six points above the relegation zone and eight points from the top. Defeats to Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, and Brighton have compounded United’s poor form.

Read More: Bruno Fernandes makes “difficult” admission about Erik ten Hag’s biggest Man United moment this season

The recent loss to Tottenham has intensified the pressure on Erik ten Hag, making the upcoming away games against FC Porto and Aston Villa crucial for his job security.

Following a draw against FC Twente in the Europa League last week, United now face a must-win situation on the road against the Portuguese side to revive their European campaign.

While many names in the squad are expected to stay the same, Ten Hag will likely be forced into a few changes due to injuries.

André Onana, Altay Bayındır, and Tom Heaton will continue as goalkeepers, and in defence, there will likely be no changes.

Against Tottenham, Victor Lindelöf returned to the squad and was an unused substitute, replacing Harry Maguire, who had sustained a knock in training during the days before the fixture.

In midfield, there is a big question mark surrounding Kobbie Mainoo. He was substituted shortly before half-time against Spurs, seemingly indicating that he had hurt his hamstring.

Hamstring problems can range from minor to very severe, and with Ten Hag cautious not to overplay the 19-year-old during the early stages of his career, it is likely that Mainoo will be left in Manchester.

This would allow Toby Collyer to return to the squad after he was left off the subs bench against Tottenham. Mason Mount also came off injured after a nasty head collision, but he confirmed on social media that he is okay with continuing to play.

Despite his red card on the weekend, Bruno Fernandes will be allowed to play against Porto, as his ban only applies to domestic competitions.

The attack has no injury scares, meaning the usual group will be available to play. After three appearances off the bench, Ramsus Højlund may be granted his first start after returning from injury.

Man United expected squad

Goalkeepers: André Onana, Altay Bayındır, Tom Heaton.
Defenders: Noussiar Mazraoui, Victor Lindelöf, Lisandro Martínez, Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt.
Midfielders: Manuel Ugarte, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes, Toby Collyer, Casemiro, Mason Mount, Toby Collyer.
Forwards: Amad Diallo, Joshua Zirkzee, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Højlund, Antony.

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