Our predicted Manchester United starting line-up to face Real Betis on Thursday, March 16.
The Red Devils make the trip over to Spain this week in preparation for their Europa League last-16 second-leg tie at the Benito Villamarin Stadium.
Thursday’s game provides the lucrative prospect of progressing to the competition’s quarter-finals, with United being one of the major favourites to lift the trophy in Budapest.
After last week’s reverse clash, the Reds hold a three-goal advantage over their opponents as they saw out a 4-1 win at Old Trafford, meaning Erik ten Hag could use the second leg as an opportunity to rest frequent starters and give fringe players a chance to get minutes in their legs.
Predicted line-up
De Gea
Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Martinez, Malacia
Varane and Shaw could both use a rest.
Casemiro*, Fred
Before Sunday I’d have said to also give Casemiro a rest, but since he’ll have four games of sitting on the sidelines, he may as well play and anchor the midfield.
Sancho, Fernandes*, Rashford
Both Antony and Sancho didn’t look too up to the mark at the weekend, however, I think the Englishman may thrive the more he builds his minutes up now he’s back in action and starting the game will be a great opportunity to do so.
Weghorst
*It’s worth noting that both Casemiro and Fernandes are one booking away from suspension in Europe and they will be vital if United advance to the last eight.
Dalot for AWB? Aaron didn’t have the best of games on Sunday. Either is fine though.
Antony for Sancho as Jadon looks better off the bench, perhaps to hopefully remove the risk of Bruno suspension if we are comfortable in the game?
Antony in sancho out
There’s growing noise around a start for Pellestri. This game offers EtH the perfect opportunity to test his young Uruguayan – and he’s got plenty of experience against Spanish sides. Surely Marcus could sit this one out.