Manchester United predicted lineup for 2022-23 season

A selection dilemma awaits the Red Devils in the upcoming season.

Manchester United will again go into this season with dozens of expectations and the burden of last year's failure. But this time around, they have a new man in charge. Erik ten Hag will be handling proceedings at United and will be hoping to inject some fresh rush of blood. However, he might not be fully satisfied with the work done in the transfer market by United's management.

Going into the Premier League this season, the Red Devils have a similar squad to last season. Having the same problems and players, the task is likely to be mammoth for the Dutch manager. Nonetheless, ten Hag has shown promise with his eye-catching tactics in pre-season, which represents the only ray of hope for the team. The United team does have some new names in Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen, and Tyrell Malacia, so we may see some changes in the starting lineup.

Let's take a look at how Manchester United can line up in the upcoming season.

Goalkeeper- David De Gea

Despite a lot of disappointments and failures, Manchester United's last season saw David De Gea's resurgence in goal. De Gea provided an impeccable performance last season despite being tipped to be replaced by Dean Henderson. Even though he only kept eight clean sheets in the Premier League, he was very solid defending shots. Under Erik ten Hag, he will now play the sweeper-keeper role, which will be a good challenge for him.

Right back- Diogo Dalot

Dalot started last season as a backup to Aaron Wan Bissaka and nearly joined AC Milan in the 2021 summer transfer window. However, he ended up staying in Manchester, which turned out to be a career-changing decision for him. The Portuguese fullback proved to be United's best option on the right with his attacking capabilities. As the season progressed, his name became more frequent on the team sheet. Dalot is likely to start this season as a starter on the right.

Centre back- Harry Maguire

Maguire has received a lot of criticism in the past year. Despite a memorable Euro last term, he has struggled to carry forward the same form in the Red Devils jersey. In consequence, he was also excluded from the starting lineup at the end of the season. However, he will likely share the burden of defence again this season. The Dutch coach has already said that Maguire is the club captain and this might certain his position at centre-back.

Centre back- Raphael Varane

Varane's form last season was a major shock for Manchester United. The French defender arrived in England with a lot of expectations and high regard but failed miserably. The pacy and strong style of English Football didn't seem to suit him at the beginning, but Varane looked comfortable as the season came to an end. With his proven track record at the global stage, he will be hoping to reach his peak in his second season.

Left back- Luke Shaw

Luke Shaw had a similar case to Harry Maguire last season. He also failed to maintain his Euro form in the league, which caused managers a lot of headaches. Shaw has been an indispensable member of the left-back position, but Tyrell Malacia's arrival will send him a loud warning to stay in top form. Although Tyrell Malacia had a good preseason, Shaw might end up starting ahead of him due to his proven history and experience.

Central Midfielder- Fred

Manchester United's midfield has been a hot topic in recent years, but Fred is the only player who has performed up to expectations. After his debut season in 2018, the Brazilian midfielder became a regular fixture in the centre of the field. He has good ball skills and his Brazilian flair makes him an asset for United in midfield. In keeping with his form and recent performances, he is likely to start in midfield next season.

Central Midfielder- Casemiro

The Red Devil's latest signing goes straight into the starting lineup. Casemiro decided to leave the European Champions to join the struggling Manchester United. But he is certainly the sort of player, the team was crying out for. The United faithful will be hoping that he can be the turning point for their side in the 2022-23 season. Fred and Casemiro have formed a great partnership and understanding while playing for Brazil. The national team are unbeaten whenever the duo have started together.

Attacking Midfielder- Bruno Fernandes

Since Bruno Fernandes joined Manchester United in the 2020 Winter transfer window, he has been an irreplaceable member of the club. Even though last season wasn't according to the Portuguese's high standards, he still managed 10 goals and six assists. With Pogba's departure, Fernandes is expected to be the sole midfield leader under Erik ten Hag's new system.

Left Winger- Marcus Rashford

Marcus Rashford had a miserable season last year. He started in just 13 games and scored four goals. The English forward has been at United since his youth days and has always been considered a future star. However, his performances haven't consistently met expectations. This season is going to be key for Rashford's career, and he will be hoping to live up to expectations after a strong pre-season campaign.

Right Winger- Jadon Sancho

Jadon Sancho was the big money signing from Borussia Dortmund last season for United but the Englishman had a disappointing debut season. It must be noted that his poor season was also a result of uncertainty over his role. After being used on the right-wing initially, he was switched to the left, which didn't do him any good. This season, he is likely to get a definite role on the right wing and will be looking to cash in on his good preseason showing.

Striker- Anthony Martial

Anthony Martial's place in Manchester United's lineup next season is likely to be a key talking point. Particularly since Cristiano Ronaldo is the direct competitor for his position. The French forward was loaned to Sevilla in the second half of last season but he failed to grab any attention. This summer, he has looked in great shape and form in pre-season friendlies. Considering Ronaldo isn't match fit, Martial might replace Ronaldo in initial games, which could pave the way for making his spot permanent as Ronaldo is reportedly looking to leave Old Trafford.

** This article was last updated on August 20, 2022.