As the 2024/25 Premier League season kicks off, Erik ten Hag and Manchester United will open their campaign with a home fixture against Fulham at Old Trafford this Friday night. The summer transfer window has seen Fulham make a series of intriguing signings, which could add an extra layer of challenge for United in this opening match.
While Manchester United may face some difficulties due to injuries sidelining a few first-team players, the depth and quality of the remaining squad members should still enable them to secure a positive result in front of their home fans. The significance of starting the season with a win is heightened by the memory of their previous encounter with Fulham at Old Trafford, where United suffered a disappointing defeat.
Before diving into predictions about Manchester United’s lineup for the match against Fulham, it is essential to review the current squad composition, including new arrivals and those who have departed. The Red Devils have bolstered their squad with several notable signings, including Leny Yoro from Lille, Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich. In contrast, key departures include Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who moved to West Ham, Donny van de Beek to Girona, Mason Greenwood to Marseille, and Alvaro Carreras to Benfica.
Currently, Manchester United is still in talks regarding the potential acquisition of Manuel Ugarte from PSG, with the possibility of Jadon Sancho being considered as a replacement for Neymar at PSG. This transfer is anticipated to be finalized soon. Additionally, Scott McTominay remains linked with a potential move away from the club, while Bruno Fernandes has recently extended his contract with Manchester United until 2027.
**Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Fulham**
Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui are fit and available to play against Fulham, along with Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez. This situation solidifies the defensive setup, although I would suggest considering Diogo Dalot for the left-back position instead of Martinez. Despite Martinez’s commendable defensive performance against Manchester City, his contributions in attack were limited. Dalot would offer a more balanced approach with better attacking support. Given Maguire’s current fitness concerns, De Ligt should pair with Martinez in central defense. Regarding Harry Amass, it’s unlikely he will feature in the season opener after not being fielded against a weakened Manchester City in the Community Shield.
In the midfield, Casemiro, who showcased strong performances against Manchester City, should be partnered with Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes. Mason Mount’s performance against Manchester City was less impactful due to positional issues.
For the attacking positions, Alejandro Garnacho is expected to return to the starting lineup following his impressive substitute appearance against Manchester City. Amad Diallo should be positioned on the right wing, while Marcus Rashford leads the attack centrally. Hojlund’s absence due to injury and Zirkzee’s lack of match fitness mean they will not feature in this match.
**Manchester United vs Fulham Prediction**
Both teams will be motivated to secure a victory in their season opener. Historically, Manchester United has a strong track record in their first league match of the season, making a win seem likely. I predict Manchester United will triumph, with Alejandro Garnacho likely to be on the scoresheet. Based on the current squad and recent performances, a 2-1 victory for Manchester United seems plausible, with Garnacho scoring one goal and Rashford adding another.
**Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Fulham:**
**Formation: 4-2-3-1**
**Starting XI:**
– **Goalkeeper:** Andre Onana
– **Right Back:** Noussair Mazraoui
– **Center Backs:** Matthijs de Ligt, Lisandro Martinez
– **Left Back:** Diogo Dalot (for a more balanced approach)
– **Central Midfielders:** Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo
– **Attacking Midfielder:** Bruno Fernandes
– **Right Wing:** Amad Diallo
– **Left Wing:** Alejandro Garnacho
– **Striker:** Marcus Rashford
**Bench:**
– Tom Heaton
– Harry Maguire
– Luke Shaw (if fit)
– Scott McTominay
– Mason Mount
– Jadon Sancho (if available)
– Joshua Zirkzee (if fit)