Casemiro Set for Crucial Comeback as Man Utd Eye Victory Against Sunderland
Manchester United are eager to relieve the mounting pressure and head into the international break on a positive note when they welcome Sunderland on Saturday.
The Red Devils suffered another setback and embarrassment last weekend as they were outplayed by Brentford away from home, putting Ruben Amorim under intense scrutiny and leaving United stuck in 14th position in the Premier League.
The hope for improvement remains dim at the moment, but United can secure some vital relief by defeating the newly-promoted Sunderland for a third consecutive home win.
Here is how United might set up at Old Trafford.
Man Utd Predicted Lineup vs. Sunderland (3-4-2-1)
GK: Altay Bayındır—The United goalkeeper struggled with Brentford's second and third goals last weekend, though he also made several crucial saves to prevent a heavier defeat early on.
CB: Leny Yoro—Yoro was unexpectedly left out of the starting eleven at the Gtech Community Stadium, with United clearly missing the young defender during their defensive collapse.
CB: Matthijs de Ligt—With Yoro expected to replace Harry Maguire in the lineup, De Ligt should move back to his favored central role. The Dutch defender had a tough time in west London but has been among United's more reliable players this season.
CB: Luke Shaw—Shaw also struggled at Brentford after being overwhelmed by Erling Haaland and others two weeks earlier. Nevertheless, Amorim appears to trust the English defender.
RWB: Diogo Dalot—With Noussair Mazraoui still unavailable for United, Dalot's comeback is important. The Portuguese defender will battle with Amad Diallo for the right wing-back spot, with the Ivorian returning after dealing with a recent family loss.
CM: Casemiro—The Brazilian missed the Brentford match due to his one-match ban, but his value in midfield was clearly demonstrated in the capital. United require his presence back in the middle of the park.
CM: Bruno Fernandes—Fernandes has now failed to convert two penalties for United this season following last weekend's poor attempt, with the captain's missed spot kick proving decisive. However, he has found the net in his previous two Old Trafford appearances.
LWB: Patrick Dorgu—Amorim will expect Dorgu to offer significant attacking contributions down the left flank, particularly if the more defensive-minded Dalot starts on the right side.
RF: Bryan Mbeumo—Following two goals before the September international break, Mbeumo has failed to score in his last three matches for United. He couldn't find the net against his previous club last weekend but did earn United's penalty.
ST: Benjamin Šeško—The Slovenian managed six attempts by the 32nd minute against the Bees, finally scoring his first goal for United last Saturday. Despite the defeat, his maiden strike should boost his confidence going forward.
LF: Matheus Cunha—Cunha has appeared to be United's most promising creative force in attack and will be essential to breaking down a stubborn Sunderland defense. The Black Cats have conceded just four goals in their six Premier League matches.
