Man Utd Predicted XI Vs Everton: Cunha & Mbeumo In?

Man Utd Predicted XI vs Everton: Cunha & Mbeumo In? A Deep Dive into Erik ten Hag's Selection Conundrums

Manchester United's clash against Everton promises to be a fascinating encounter, a battle between a team striving for Champions League qualification and one fighting desperately to avoid relegation. Erik ten Hag faces some intriguing selection dilemmas ahead of this crucial Premier League fixture. The fitness and form of key players, coupled with the tactical nuances of the opposition, will dictate his final team sheet. This article will delve deep into the potential starting XI for Manchester United against Everton, exploring the arguments for and against the inclusion of potential new signings João Félix and Bryan Mbeumo, and analysing the tactical implications of various formations and player choices. The importance of this game, in terms of both league position and momentum heading into the final stages of the season, cannot be overstated. A win is paramount for United to solidify their position in the top four.

Predicted XI and Tactical Considerations:

Predicting a starting eleven for a Premier League manager is never an exact science, but based on recent form, injuries, and Ten Hag’s tactical preferences, a strong contender for Manchester United’s starting XI against Everton could look like this:

Formation: 4-2-3-1

• Goalkeeper: David de Gea - De Gea remains the undisputed number one, his shot-stopping abilities crucial in keeping clean sheets.
• Defenders: Diogo Dalot (RB), Raphael Varane (CB), Lisandro Martínez (CB), Luke Shaw (LB) - This back four offers a potent blend of defensive solidity and attacking impetus. Dalot's attacking forays and Shaw's overlapping runs provide width. Varane and Martínez are a formidable central defensive pairing, known for their aggression and aerial dominance.
• Midfielders: Casemiro (CDM), Christian Eriksen (CDM) – Casemiro provides the defensive screen, his tackling and positioning crucial in breaking up play. Eriksen's creativity and passing range will dictate United's tempo from deep.
• Attacking Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes (AM), Marcus Rashford (LW), Antony (RW) – Fernandes orchestrates attacks from the number ten position, his vision and passing crucial for creating chances. Rashford's pace and directness on the left flank are vital, while Antony provides the trickery and cutting edge from the right.
• Striker: Harry Kane (ST) – The striker position is a key area of debate. While Anthony Martial's injury record is a concern, his recent performances when fit have been encouraging. However, a more robust option may be preferred. The acquisition of a high-profile striker is a strong possibility, and his inclusion would significantly alter this prediction. For this prediction, we will consider the possibility of a new signing.

Alternative Options and Potential Changes:

This predicted XI is certainly not set in stone. Several factors could influence Ten Hag's final decision:

• The Fitness of Anthony Martial: If Martial is fully fit, he could easily start as the striker, pushing Kane (or the newly acquired striker) to the bench. Martial's link-up play and movement are invaluable assets.
• The Arrival of New Signings: As mentioned previously, the arrival of a new forward – such as João Félix or Bryan Mbeumo – could significantly alter this predicted XI. Félix, with his dribbling ability and eye for goal, could be deployed on the left wing or through the middle as a false nine. Mbeumo, with his pace and finishing prowess, would be a direct competitor for the central striker role. Their inclusion will depend on their adaptation to the Premier League and the manager's tactical preferences.
• Tactical Flexibility: Ten Hag is known for his tactical flexibility, and the possibility of a 4-3-3 formation should not be ruled out. This could see the inclusion of an additional midfielder alongside Casemiro and Eriksen. A 3-5-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity, is another potential strategy.

The Case for João Félix and Bryan Mbeumo:

Both João Félix and Bryan Mbeumo possess attributes that could significantly bolster Manchester United's attacking options.

João Félix:

• Technical Prowess: Félix is a supremely gifted technician. His close control, dribbling skills, and passing accuracy would add another layer of creativity to United’s attack.
• Versatility: He can play across the front three, giving Ten Hag greater tactical flexibility. He could operate as a central striker, a left winger, or even as a false nine.
• Goal Threat: Despite his relatively young age, Félix has demonstrated a consistent goal-scoring ability throughout his career.

Bryan Mbeumo:

• Clinical Finishing: Mbeumo's composure in front of goal is remarkable. He possesses a strong shot and is adept at converting even half-chances.
• Pace and Directness: His pace allows him to stretch defenses and create opportunities for himself and his teammates. He's not afraid to take players on one-on-one.
• Teamwork: Mbeumo's work rate and contribution to the team’s overall pressing game are commendable.

Arguments Against Their Immediate Inclusion:

While both players possess undeniable talent, there are arguments against their immediate inclusion in the starting XI:

• Adaptation Period: Both players are new to the Premier League and will require time to adjust to the physicality and pace of the league.
• Team Chemistry: Integrating new players seamlessly into a well-established team takes time and effort. Disrupting the team's chemistry could be detrimental.
• Tactical Familiarity: Ten Hag needs time to assess their strengths and integrate them into his tactical system effectively.

The Scientific Angle: Tactical Analysis and Data-Driven Decisions

Erik ten Hag's approach to team selection is likely informed by a blend of intuition, experience, and data analysis. Advanced metrics, such as Expected Goals (xG), Pass Completion Percentage, and tackles won, provide valuable insights into player performance.

• xG and Shot Placement: Analyzing xG allows the manager to assess the quality of chances created and the effectiveness of strikers in converting those chances.
• Pass Networks and Possession Dynamics: Data on passing accuracy and successful progressive passes will influence the selection of midfielders and wingers. A high-possession style benefits players with strong passing range, while a direct style suits players with good pace and dribbling ability.
• Defensive Metrics: Data on tackles, interceptions, and clearances inform decisions on the defensive selection. A team playing against a strong attacking side might favor a defensive setup with players excelling in these metrics.

Ten Hag likely uses such data to make informed decisions, balancing the potential benefits of new signings with the established harmony and tactical understanding of the current team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the most likely formation for Man Utd against Everton?

A1: While Ten Hag is tactically flexible, a 4-2-3-1 formation is a strong contender, offering a balance of attack and defense.

Q2: Will Anthony Martial start if fit?

A2: Martial's fitness is crucial. If fully fit and in form, he is likely to be in the starting eleven as a striker, but his injury history is a concern.

Q3: How will new signings impact the team?

A3: The impact of new signings will depend on their integration into the team and their adaptation to the Premier League. They could immediately boost the squad, but a period of adjustment is expected.

Q4: What are Everton’s strengths and weaknesses that might influence Man Utd’s selection?

A4: Everton's strengths might lie in their defensive organization and set-piece prowess. Weaknesses might be their vulnerability to counter-attacks and struggles in creating chances consistently. This might lead Ten Hag to choose a more attacking lineup.

Q5: What's the significance of this match for Man Utd?

A5: A win is essential for Man Utd to secure Champions League qualification and maintain momentum going into the end of the season.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

Predicting a Manchester United starting XI is a challenging but engaging exercise. The potential inclusions of João Félix and Bryan Mbeumo add another layer of intrigue to Erik ten Hag's selection dilemmas. The manager will need to carefully balance the need for immediate impact from new signings with the cohesion of the existing squad. The Everton match is a critical one, and the starting XI chosen will undoubtedly play a significant role in the outcome. Stay tuned for further updates and analysis as the match approaches. And don’t forget to check out our other articles on Manchester United's season prospects and upcoming matches!