Rúben Amorim explains five Manchester United changes, why Noussair Mazraoui not in the squad

Rúben Amorim has explained the reasoning behind his five Manchester United changes as they face Rangers in the Europa League on Thursday evening.

Manchester United are set to host Rangers at Old Trafford on Thursday evening as they resume their Europa League campaign.

The start of 2025 has been a turbulent one for Rúben Amorim’s side. A well-earned draw against Liverpool and an impressive victory over Arsenal hinted at a strong run of form, but a laboured win over Southampton – despite a brilliant hat trick from Amad – and a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brighton have left fans feeling frustrated.

Thursday’s match presents an opportunity for United to bounce back and re-establish momentum. Coming into the game as firm favourites, Amorim’s men will be keen to deliver a performance that reignites belief among the Old Trafford crowd.

Seventh in the Europa League standings – comfortably within the automatic qualification spots for the knockout stages – a win against Rangers would further cement their position and bring some much-needed positivity to the club.

Amorim explains five changes

The 39-year-old head coach chose to make five adjustments to the team that faced Brighton, with the most significant being that Toby Collyer starts in midfield.

Speaking to TNT Sports before the game, Amorim was asked why he’s made the changes, to which he replied: “It’s impossible to be competitive in the Premier League and in Europe, especially when you play in the Europa League.

“I think it’s much harder than the Champions League, not the opponents of course but the time to recover.

“So we have everything in our mind, we have to put the players at the same level and they have to be prepared for every game.”

Collyer’s start is only he second time he’s done so for United and the first time under Amorim, but after multiple good appearances from the bench of late, it’s more than deserved.

Beyond this, Lisandro Martinez has been reinstated while Harry Maguire is afforded a rest, while Alejandro Garnacho starts in attack, with Noussair Mazraoui not in the squad as a precaution due to a knock against Brighton.

Altay Bayındır has replaced André Onana in goal, while Christian Eriksen has a rare start over Kobbie Mainoo, with Manuel Ugarte rested for Collyer.

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