07 October 2023 , 04:00
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Manchester United head into this weekend’s clash against Brentford off the back of a rotten start to the season.
The Red Devils have lost six out of their opening ten matches of the campaign in all competitions. Another defeat against the Bees this weekend would make it three consecutive losses for the second time in the early weeks of the new season.
Reversals at the hands of Crystal Palace and Galatasaray also have United staring down the barrel of three consecutive defeats on home soil for the first time since 1979. That could force Erik ten Hag ’s hand when it comes to his team selection.
Take a look at the side that could take to the pitch as the Red Devils welcome Brentford on Saturday afternoon:
Andre Onana has received plenty of criticism for his performances since his summer arrival from Italian giants Inter Milan. He has made a series of errors, with Chris Sutton suggesting that the Red Devils could turn to the transfer market to replace him.
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For the time being though, the Cameroonian’s place between the sticks appears safe given that Altay Bayindir is still to make his debut. There could be a few changes to the defence in front of him though.
Starting at left-back, Diogo Dalot should continue in the role given the ongoing injury issues currently impacting Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw and Sergio Reguilon. On the other flank, Aaron Wan-Bissaka is still out which could see Victor Lindelof continuing to deputise at right-back.
Jonny Evans could start against Brentford (Getty Images)What starting XI should Erik ten Hag name vs Brentford? Share your suggestions in the comments below
The centre of defence could also boast a few alterations. With Lindelof moving to the right side, Raphael Varane might well be partnered by Jonny Evans.
The former Leicester captain shone on his only start of the season so far against Burnley so could be handed another opportunity against Brentford. Evans slotting into the backline could see Ten Hag fielding a slightly different midfield.
Since his summer arrival from Fiorentina, Moroccan midfielder Sofyan Amrabat has deputised at left-back on a number of occasions. He could be moved back into the centre against the Bees.
Amrabat would likely be joined by Brazilian destroyer Casemiro in the middle of the park. He has endured a difficult start to the campaign and was sent off against Galatasary but will retain his position.
Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes should round off a midfield trio. He has scored two goals in seven Premier League outings so far this season.
Moving into attack, Ten Hag also has a few decisions to make. Rasmus Hojlund is sure to be handed another Old Trafford start after his brace against Galatasaray.
Rasmus Hojlund scored twice against Galatasaray (Getty Images)One man who was also afforded an opportunity against the Turkish giants was Antony. The Brazilian made his first outing for the club in over a month with a brief substitute appearance.
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He could earn a full recall this weekend. On the opposite flank, Marcus Rashford is highly likely to be named in the starting lineup despite Ten Hag admitting that the academy graduate is “struggling” with his form.
Expected Man United XI vs Brentford: Onana; Lindelof, Varane, Evans, Dalot; Casemiro, Amrabat; Antony, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund .,