Manchester United will be back in the Premier League after a long break as the Red Devils face Istanbul Basaksehir. With a slender victory against West Bromwich Albion a couple of days ago, the squad will have increased confidence by playing at Old Trafford. Paul Pogba is still a doubt for the midweek game after Solskjaer reported about the Frenchman’s injury during the international break.
Solskjaer will surely make some changes to his team from the Premier League game, in the Champions League. Though Basaksehir defeated Manchester United last time around but the Red Devils dominated the proceedings but failed to create a lot of clear-cut chances in front of goal. Thus, it will be interesting to see how Solskjaer sets up his Manchester United side against Istanbul Basaksehir.
Lets us now have a look at how Ole Gunnar Solskjaer lineup hos Red Devils side in the midweek game in Champions League.
THE 4-4-2 (DIAMOND)
The 4-4-2 (diamond) formation has been Ole’s go-to formation and system this season as it gives balance and stability to the team. The tenacity and ruggedness of Fred and McTominay in the midfield protects United’s back-four as the defence has been weak. Alex Telles will be again expected to start in the midweek after a fine Premier League debut a couple of days ago.
Last time against Istanbul, Dean Henderson made his Champions League debut but this time, De Gea might tale back his place between the sticks. He didn’t play a single game in the international break and will not need a rest as he is also in fine form. Anthony Martial was wasteful in front of goal against West Bromwich Albion and has got a lot of stick for his poor performances.
Cavani is slowly coming back to full fitness and it won’t be surprising to see him finally start for the Red Devils in the midweek.
THE 4-2-3-1
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has used the 4-2-3-1 formation the most in his tenure at Manchester United as it can be used both defensively and attacking. In this system though, Telles will get complete freedom to go up the pitch and join the attack as Rashford will drift inside for most parts of the game. Telles is one of the most creative left-backs in the world and United should use him wisely.
Wan-Bissaka isn’t very strong going forward, and Fosu-Mensah did well last time he faced the Turkish side, so he could be an option as well. Fred and McTominay are almost a surety for the game, especially with doubts on Matic and Pogba, due to fitness issues. Juan Mata is very likely to be benched for the game as he was continuously caught out last time both the sides faced each other.
THE 4-3-3
Solskjaer has rarely used the 4-3-3 formation at Manchester United as the Red Devils don’t have a world-class defensive midfielder in the squad. Thus, it is unlikely for Solskjaer to go with this system, but looking at the opposition, this might be a good option to have offensively. Manchester United will be expected to win this game handsomely.
