Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick could opt for an eyebrow-raising starting lineup against Bournemouth.
The Red Devils are currently running on a seven-match winless run. Many thought Wednesday’s 1-4 defeat to Como would have spelt the end for the 45-year-old’s tenure.
However, Carrick will remain in charge for the weekend action. Some suggest this could be his final act regardless of the result, as the club’s directors only kept him in his role to find a suitable alternative. Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann are considered the main candidates for the role.
Bruno Fernandes & Matheus Cunha to be dropped against Bournemouth?
(Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
In addition to the heavy result and abysmal performance, the defeat to Como also revealed more internal conflicts at Man Utd, particularly between the squad and the technical staff.
For instance, Carrick reportedly had a heated argument with Matheus Cunha at half-time. The Brazilian didn’t take the field at the restart, as he was hooked for Amad Diallo.
Moreover, Bruno Fernandes publicly questioned Carrick’s tactical decisions, insisting United should have pressed high against Como rather than allow them to comfortably bring the ball forward. This prompted a blunt response from the 45-year-old, who argued that the Portuguese and his teammates should instead increase their work rate.
So if the Wallsend native truly is a dead man walking at Old Trafford, Sunday could present his final chance to take a stance against the players he’s accusing of complacency, sending a stern message to the management.
Therefore, we wouldn’t be shocked to see Cunha and Fernandes both dropped from the starting lineup against Bournemouth
Man Utd’s expected lineup against Bournemouth
(Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
If Carrick is willing to take such a drastic measure, then he might as well grant Joshua Zirkzee his long-overdue starting role, especially after scoring a consolation goal in midweek.
The Dutchman should lead the line for United in the continued absence of Benjamin Sesko. If Marcus Rashford doesn’t recover in time, Carrick could resort to two left-footed wingers in Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo and make them alternate positions all game.
Mason Mount has been fielded in a deeper role this season, but he remains Bruno’s most natural replacement in the No.10 role.
Since Kobbie Mainoo will likely remain unavailable, Carlos Baleba and Youri Tielemans represent the best available double pivot, with Andrey Santos relegated to the bench.
Lisandro Martinez is also doubtful after suffering a knock at Elland Road last week, while Matthijs de Ligt looked out of sorts in midweek after spending 11 months on the sidelines. Hence, Leny Yoro should start alongside Harry Maguire at the heart of the backline.
Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui didn’t impress in Como, but Carrick has very few choices at full-back to pick from, with Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu ruled out. However, Ayden Heaven should be available after recovering from illness.
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