With Manchester United searching for consistency under Rúben Amorim, the upcoming match against Lyon may reveal which players are beginning to earn the manager’s trust ahead of a crucial season.
Manchester United are heading into a pivotal week in their season, with two important matches coming up back-to-back.
First, they take on French side Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals—a tie set up after their victory over Real Sociedad in the previous round.
Amorim’s side has arrived at this stage on the back of a narrow 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest and a goalless draw against Manchester City.
They will need to find their cutting edge if they are to continue their European run, after hosting Lyon at Old Trafford then attention will swiftly turn to the Premier League and a trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United.
With so much on the line, United will be hoping for positive news on the injury front to boost their chances across both competitions.
How Amorim could set up United vs Lyon
United’s line-up for the upcoming clash against Lyon is expected to feature several key names, even as the Red Devils continue to battle inconsistency under Amorim.
The Portuguese tactician has shown signs of implementing his tactical blueprint at Old Trafford, and this match could provide another glimpse into the evolving identity of his team.
Amorim is likely to stick with his favoured 3-4-3 structure against Lyon, with Joshua Zirkzee is likely to lead the line offering a fresh option up front instead of Rasmus Højlund, who has recently been described as “anxious” by Amorim.
Behind the Dutchman, Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho are almost certain to retain their places, adding creativity and pace in the final third.
On the flanks, Diogo Dalot and Patrick Dorgu remain Amorim’s most trusted options to offer width and defensive solidity. In midfield, Amorim may stick with experience and control, pairing Casemiro with Manuel Ugarte — a duo capable of dictating tempo while protecting the back line.
In the back three, Harry Maguire could bring experience and aerial presence, while Leny Yoro offers youthful composure and athleticism. Noussair Mazraoui may slot in as the third centre-back, providing flexibility with his ability to step into midfield or push forward when needed.
As for the visitors, Lyon are expected to turn to their more agile threats, with Corentin Tolisso and Rayan Cherki likely to spearhead their attacking play.
Young Argentine forward Thiago Almada could also pose a danger, while former Chelsea and United midfielder Nemanja Matić may anchor the midfield alongside Tanner Tessmann.
Manchester United predicted line-up vs Lyon
Onana; Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui, Dalot, Casemiro, Ugarte, Dorgu, Garnacho, Fernandes, Zirkzee.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is released every Wednesday at 6 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.