The Red Devils are in serious need of a win over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League to clinch a spot in the knockout round, and after their debacle against the Eredivisie giants in September, the odds appear stacked against them. That’s why the injuries to Man United’s front could not have come at a worse time.
With Anthony Martial out with a foot injury and Wayne Rooney recovering from an illness, Man United will in all likelihood be forced to rely on Memphis Depay and Jesse Lingard – neither of whom have lived up to the incredible expectations that come with being a forward for Manchester United.
As a result, Louis van Gaal will likely have to put together a makeshift starting XI that includes the best players he has available – the fate of their Champions League hopes could very well depend on it.
Here is the Manchester United predicted XI for their Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven.
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GK David de Gea
Though de Gea has not been as invincible in the Champions League as in the Premier League, he has been solid for Man United at Old Trafford the whole season.
DF Matteo Darmian
Despite not getting the start against Norwich City, injuries will likely force Darmian back into a starting role.
DF Phil Jones
Jones has the experience and is healthy enough to get the nod in this vital match.
DF Daley Blind
Blind recorded the assist to Man United’s lone goal against PSV Eindhoven in September. But the main reason he returns to the lineup is his solid performance against Norwich City.
DF Marcos Rojo
Forced into duty for Man United in relief of the injured Ander Herrera against Norwich City, Rojo has done a solid job holding the place of the injured Luke Shaw as well.
MF Bastian Schweinsteiger
Schweinsteiger has been in big Champions League matches before, but this will probably be his biggest yet as a member of Man United.
MF Morgan Schneiderlin
The former Southampton star has adapted to the Champions League very nicely and should once again dominate ball control and time of possession.
MF Juan Mata
Just about the only consistent scoring threat left for Louis van Gaal, Mata will be vital in this match.
MF Ashley Young
Ander Herrera is hurt so Young will need to move back to midfield at least until the team gets healthy again.
FW Memphis Depay
Depay has just three goals as a member of Man United: one against his former club, one vs Sunderland and one vs Norwich City. Hopefully that number will rise to at least four this Wednesday.
FW Jesse Lingard
Lingard is having a remarkable stretch. In the past three games where he’s played all ninety minutes, Man United have won all three with Lingard scoring a goal and recording an assist.