“Brilliant line-up” – Man Utd starting XI to face Chelsea decided as Rashford and Dalot dropped
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Van Nistelrooy’s Premier League Debut as United Interim: Predicted Lineup for Chelsea Clash
Ruud van Nistelrooy steps into Old Trafford this afternoon for his Premier League managerial debut as Manchester United’s interim boss, following Erik ten Hag’s recent exit. In a whirlwind week, the Dutchman guided the Red Devils to a thrilling 5-2 Carabao Cup victory over Leicester. But today’s faceoff with Chelsea will be the first significant test of his leadership on a high-stakes league stage.
With Ruben Amorim set to take over permanently after the upcoming international break, Van Nistelrooy’s performance over the next few games could solidify his position in the coaching staff, depending on his success during this transitional period. Here’s a look at our writers’ predictions on how United might line up against Chelsea.
Sticking with 4-2-3-1: Leveraging Midweek Momentum
The 4-2-3-1 formation that produced Wednesday’s impressive result is expected to remain, capitalizing on the confidence boost from a dominant attacking display. Andre Onana, who was rested for the Carabao Cup match, is likely to resume his spot as the starting goalkeeper. At the back, Lisandro Martinez may return to central defense alongside Matthijs de Ligt, while Noussair Mazraoui takes his place on the left to address defensive gaps.
Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte are predicted to maintain their roles as a reliable midfield duo. Casemiro’s strength and Ugarte’s defensive instincts make them a balanced pairing, likely tasked with containing Chelsea’s midfield creativity, including a key matchup against Cole Palmer.
Predicted Attack: Hojlund to Lead, Rashford’s Role in Flux
Up front, Rasmus Hojlund is expected to lead the line over Joshua Zirkzee, with Van Nistelrooy aiming to create a formidable counter-attacking threat. Hojlund’s positioning and finishing ability should help maintain forward momentum, supported by the pace and creativity of Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho on the wings. While Marcus Rashford has struggled in recent matches, Van Nistelrooy may use him off the bench for an added spark against Chelsea, a team Rashford often performs well against.
Several writers foresee the potential for Rashford to play through the middle, with Garnacho and Amad flanking him, but there’s a consensus that Hojlund’s presence would offer a more consistent threat to Chelsea’s defense. Van Nistelrooy could also swap Garnacho to the left and position Amad on the right, making use of Garnacho’s dribbling skills to penetrate Chelsea’s backline.
Predicted Lineups
Alex Turk’s Predicted XI:
Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Evans, Martinez; Ugarte, Casemiro; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund
Archie Griggs’ Predicted XI:
Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, Dalot; Casemiro, Ugarte; Amad, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
Fraser Watson’s Predicted XI:
Onana; Dalot, De Ligt, Martinez, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Ugarte; Rashford, Fernandes, Garnacho; Hojlund
Jack McEachen’s Predicted XI:
Onana; Dalot, De Ligt, Martinez, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Ugarte; Amad, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford
Key Changes to Watch
With Van Nistelrooy still adjusting to the United lineup, any tactical shifts will be essential to watch as the match unfolds. A strong showing by Hojlund or Garnacho could solidify their places in the starting XI under Amorim’s reign, while Rashford’s performance off the bench may hint at a rejuvenated role in the weeks to come. Whether United sticks to the disciplined shape from Wednesday or adjusts for Chelsea’s strengths, Van Nistelrooy’s interim stint promises plenty of intrigue.
Today’s matchup will offer a glimpse of what United fans can expect under Van Nistelrooy, particularly as they prepare for Amorim’s arrival. For now, though, a win against Chelsea would underscore his capability to lead and steady United in the Premier League.
