Our confirmed MUFC XI for a pretty important FA Cup third round game vs Wigan Athletic is now in.
Manchester United’s best chance at silverware is now the FA Cup. We’re all aware of that fact. Erik ten Hag’s side were drawn away to Wigan Athletic in the third round – with 7,000 Reds set to pack out the away end this evening.
The supporters will be hoping to roar their lads on to cup glory, not only tonight, but at a Wembley showpiece come late-may. Obviously, the performance levels will have to increase before that point, though I still have faith as this is a talented group of players.
Tonight is about safe progression. With no game for the last week, I can see why Ten Hag has named a full strength side, though there were one or two faces I would have liked to have seen – including goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who is yet to make his debut.
Anyway, enough chitter-chatter, let’s give you the full run down of the starting line-up.
Check out our confirmed MUFC XI vs Wigan Athletic in full here:
🫵 Your United XI to kick off our #FACup campaign! #MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 8, 2024
As already discussed, Andre Onana does keep his place in between the sticks, which does feel like a weird decision given Bayindir is going to be forced into action in a week or so anyway. It would have been nice to ease him in.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka starts in the right-back position, with Diogo Dalot moving over to the left-hand side. These are the only fit senior full-backs in the squad. Jonny Evans partners Raphael Varane at the heart of defence. Again, they’re our only fit, senior centre-halves.
Kobbie Mainoo continues, in what will be another stern test for the midfielder who never fails to impress. Scott McTominay starts in midfield yet again, with Bruno completing the trio.
Rasmus Hojlund is back after illness so he starts. To his right and left respectively will be Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford.
There is youth aplenty on the bench including Rhys Bennett, Willy Kambwala, Omari Forson and Joe Hugill, just to name a few.
Don’t forget to leave your score predictions in the comment box below.