Manchester United are rocking in the business end of the Premier League festive season with a great run of victories. But tomorrow in the Premier League, the rampaging Red Devils meet the unmovable Leicester City with the second spot of the league table at stake. The tactical battle between Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Brendan Rodgers will also be an intriguing spectacle for the neutrals.
The United manager has found some new energy in the Red Devils squad, especially after the team crashed out of the Champions League. But Leicester City will be a different ball game altogether as the Foxes are doing very well in the league. After the Everton victory, it will be difficult for Solskjaer to pick his best side as all his players have performed well.
Let us now have a look at how Ole Gunnar Solskjaer might set his Manchester United side against Brendan Rodgers Leicester City.
THE 4-4-2 (DIAMOND)
This is arguably the strongest starting XI possible for Manchester United and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer based on recent performances. Paul Pogba has shown big-time why he is still considered one of the best midfielders in the world and has a lot to offer for the Red Devils. The Frenchman has thrived in the free-role where he is allowed to dictate the play without a lot of defensive responsibilities.
Lately, Nemanja Matic has also shown how important he can be to the side, just like he was towards the end of last season. The back four looks stable with De Gea behind them in between the sticks for Manchester United. Maguire has stepped up well and has led the Red Devils with pride and has shown a good amount of leadership when needed.
The front two of Manchester United will surely be Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial as both have done very well with Martial showing his qualities in the last couple of games.
THE 4-2-3-1
The 4-2-3-1 was the mantra of success last season at Manchester United but hasn’t been used a lot this season. But with new signing Edinson Cavani being a poacher in front of goal, Solskjaer might be tempted to use this system against the Foxes. Rashford has also looked very comfortable on the right-wing position and also helps out in the defence.
Last season, Manchester United won against Leicester with a similar formation and a very similar team with only Cavani replacing Mason Greenwood. Matic and Pogba will have to wary of the offensive presence Leicester City have with Vardy and Maddison. The likes of Fred and McTominay might also be an option for Solskjaer as they have excelled as a pair in the centre of the park.
THE 3-5-2
Though very unlikely, the 3-5-2 system might be an option Solskjaer withgo for against the Foxes who are very quick going forward. To contain the pace of Jamie Vardy, Solskjaer might use this system where Maddison will also not get a lot of room to work with. Looking at all the circumstances, it does have a feeling of being a blockbuster of a game on Boxing Day!
