Manchester United are getting ready for their latest Boxing Day fixture as high-flying Aston Villa make the trip to Old Trafford for a highly interesting meeting.
Going into the game, Aston Villa find themselves just one point shy of the summit of the Premier League and are forcing themselves into the title conversation.
United’s circumstances are wildly different as Erik ten Hag desperately tries to keep up with the chasing pack, with a Champions League position currently seen as the best outcome from this season.
United put in a good performance at Anfield just over a week ago but the comedown against West Ham three days ago was humbling.
🏟️ For one final time at Old Trafford in 2023…
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 26, 2023
Kobbie Mainoo, one of the breakout stars from this season, keeps his place after the trip to West Ham and Marcus Rashford has returned to the fold.
Willy Kambwala, who impressed in his Premier League debut against West Ham, has been replaced by the returning Raphael Varane.
Interestingly, Christian Eriksen is also back in the side after a brief cameo at the London Stadium. The Danish international had previously been sidelined for several weeks.
Confirmed Manchester United team (4-2-3-1): Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Evans, Dalot; Mainoo, Eriksen; Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund