New boss set to deploy 3-5-2, with Mata in the pivotal no.10 role…
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Dutch manager Louis van Gaal will be desperate to get off to a quick start this season, and his side face Swansea on the opening day of the Premier League in just over a week’s time.
Here’s the 3-5-2 formation we reckon we could pick.
GK) David de Gea
The young Spaniard will likely be United’s first-choice keeper for a decade to come.
WBR) Antonio Valencia
The Ecuadorian has done well at right wing-back during pre-season, and should get the nod versus the Swans.
WBL) Luke Shaw
With Patrice Evra gone, Shaw’s almost certain of the left-back spot, although Ashley Young has shown during pre-season that he can do a job there too.
DC) Chris Smalling
With no centre-backs yet signed, (although they are no doubt being targeted) – van Gaal will likely use the three players who have practiced his 3-5-2 formation the most so far – Smalling, Phil Jones and Jonny Evans.
DC) Phil Jones
Jones will likely play in the middle, with Smalling and Evans on either side of him.
DC) Jonny Evans
The Northern Irishman is underrated, and with few centre-backs to choose from, he’s almost guaranteed a spot until van Gaal enters the transfer market.
MC) Darren Fletcher
van Gaal has seemed to favour the solid Fletcher in pre-season, clearly admiring the fit again Scot’s industry and simple passing. He could well get the nod unless a big name central midfielder is signed to play alongside Herrera.
MC) Ander Herrera
Herrera can win back the ball, but also create chances when he has it as his feet. He’ll likely develop into a key player for United this term.
AMC) Juan Mata
This formation is perfect to maximise the brilliant Spaniard, who arrived for a club record £37m last January.
FC) Wayne Rooney
Rooney is almost certain to skipper the side this season, although he’s yet to be given the armband officially.
FC) Danny Welbeck
Dutch striker Robin van Persie is injured, and with Javier Hernandez not expected to play much of a part, the Englishman will probably line up alongside his international teammate Rooney.
