Manchester United vs. PAOK Thessaloniki: Europa League Preview and Predicted Lineup
Manchester United welcomes PAOK Thessaloniki to Old Trafford on Thursday, seeking their first Europa League win of the season. Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy aims to build on United's unbeaten run since taking charge, following a 1-1 draw against Chelsea and a 5-2 thumping of Leicester City in the Carabao Cup.
United's Injury Concerns
Despite an injury list including Christian Eriksen, Kobbie Mainoo, Luke Shaw, and Harry Maguire, Manchester United should have enough depth to secure three points. Van Nistelrooy will need to cleverly manage his squad to overcome these setbacks.
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
1. GK: André Onana
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
3. CB: Matthijs de Ligt
4. CB: Jonny Evans
5. LB: Noussair Mazraoui
6. DM: Manuel Ugarte
7. DM: Casemiro
8. RW: Amad Diallo
9. AM: Bruno Fernandes
10. LW: Marcus Rashford
11. ST: Joshua Zirkzee
Key Players
- Joshua Zirkzee leads the line, seeking his second United goal.
- Bruno Fernandes shoulders creative responsibilities.
- Diogo Dalot continues his impressive form.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday
- Time: 8:00GMT
- Location: Old Trafford
- Competition: Europa League
PAOK Thessaloniki's Challenge
The Greek outfit faces a tough task against Manchester United, but will aim to capitalize on United's injury concerns. PAOK Thessaloniki has shown resilience in European competitions and will seek to exploit any weaknesses.
United's Europa League Ambitions
A win would propel Manchester United toward qualification for the next round, revitalizing their European campaign. With Van Nistelrooy at the helm, United will aim to make a statement in the Europa League.
Tactical Analysis
Van Nistelrooy may employ a 4-2-3-1 formation to provide defensive solidity and creative freedom. Bruno Fernandes will be crucial in controlling the tempo, while Joshua Zirkzee's pace and power can trouble PAOK's defense.
Player to Watch: Joshua Zirkzee
The 23-year-old Dutch striker has shown promise since joining Manchester United. With Rasmus Højlund potentially rested, Zirkzee has an opportunity to cement his place in the starting lineup
Manchester United is poised to overcome PAOK Thessaloniki, despite injury concerns. With Van Nistelrooy's guidance and a strong squad, United should secure their first Europa League win of the season.
Manchester United hosts PAOK Thessaloniki in the Europa League, seeking their first European win. Read our preview and predicted lineup.
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oshua Zirkzee leads the line, seeking his second United goal.
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