Manchester United predicted XI to face Reading (FA Cup): Four changes expected

Manchester United are set to take on Reading in the fourth round of the FA Cup at Old Trafford on Saturday evening.

Manchester United have a few key players missing from the fixture, and are predicted to make a few changes to the XI that defeated Nottingham Forest on Wednesday evening as Erik ten Hag makes full use of his squad.

In goal, replacing David de Gea, Jack Butland could be handed his United debut after signing on loan earlier this month. Due to Diogo Dalot’s unavailability and Luke Shaw’s illness, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia may well continue as the full backs.

After receiving the Player of the Match award on Wednesday, Lisandro Martinez looks set to continue his great form and start ahead of Butland, with Victor Lindelof, who featured in the Carabao Cup Team of the Week alongside Martinez, could continue his place in the side, since Ten Hag always rewards good performances and form.

The midfield could see one change, with Christian Eriksen being granted a rest and Fred coming in to partner Casemiro in the centre of the park. The two Brazilian players are very comfortable next to each other, having played as a midfield pair for both club and country in the last few seasons.

Bruno Fernandes will likely continue his role as Manchester United’s captain in the attacking midfield position. His availability across the last few seasons has recently been highlighted, with the astonishing fact that since he signed for United, he has only missed one game due to non-suspension reasons; an illness in March 2022.

As for the front line, there could be two changes that see Marcus Rashford and Antony rested after their great performances against Forest.

Having recently received a lot of praise from both fans and Ten Hag alike, Facundo Pellistri could be handed his first ever competitive start for Manchester United on Saturday. He has impressed with his two cameo performances so far and is no longer going out on loan this January, signalling that he will have a bigger role to play in the second half of this season.

Another name hot on everyone’s lips right now is that of Alejandro Garnacho, who has impressed immensely during his debut season after being promoted from the U21 side, and is close to agreeing a new contract with the club.

Wout Weghorst is expected to start his fourth game in a row due to a lack of other options up front, and recently opened his scoring account for the Red Devils on Wednesday.

Full predicted XI

Butland, Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Martinez, Malacia, Casemiro, Fred, Fernandes, Pellistri, Weghosrt, Garnacho.