Ten Hag’s potential exciting 4-3-3 formation for the 2024/25 season- New signing to start – The premier league title is coming to Old Trafford this time around
As the new Premier League season approaches, Manchester United fans are eager to see how Erik ten Hag will line up his squad. Based on the signings of Yoro & Zirkzee so far and having looked at the two pre-season performances, we can potentially predict how Ten Hag’s starting lineup would look like. Here’s our prediction for United’s starting XI that could take the field for their season opener:
Defense:
While the full-backs, Dalot and Shaw, pick themselves, Ten Hag has to make a decision on who would be his starting center backs as United’s defense was a major issue last season.
Erik ten Hag seems determined to address this with his tactical approach and personnel choices. Here’s a deeper dive into the potential central defensive pairing of Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro, and why Yoro might be Ten Hag’s preferred partner:
The Martinez-Yoro Partnership:
Martinez, a tenacious ball-winner with surprising aerial prowess for his height, is a natural leader at the back. Yoro, on the other hand, brings a touch of composure on the ball. His calmness under pressure allows him to play out from the back effectively, a key tenet of Ten Hag’s system. This combination offers a well-rounded solution, with Martinez providing the aggression and Yoro the balance
Harry Maguire’s lack of pace has been exposed on several occasions, particularly against pacey attackers. Ten Hag’s system demands a higher defensive line with quicker reactions, something Maguire might struggle with. While Maguire is decent in the air, his passing range can be limited. Yoro’s composure on the ball allows him to play out from the back more effectively, a crucial aspect of Ten Hag’s possession-based approach. This is probably why Yoro will start ahead of Maguire.
Midfield:
Casemiro’s rumored departure creates a midfield conundrum for Manchester United. Ten Hag must find a new anchor. If United don’t sign a new defensive midfield, then they will have to rely on Kobbie Mainoo to play the role. The youngster’s success as a deep-lying playmaker for England in the Euros make him a potential candidate. His tactical intelligence, passing range, and composure under pressure suggest he could adapt to the role.
This would be a gamble, however. Mainoo is young and lacks experience compared to a seasoned defensive midfielder. Ten Hag would need to find a way to balance his attacking influence with the defensive demands of the Premier League. Ultimately, the final midfield configuration hinges on Manchester United’s transfer activity. If a world-class defensive midfielder arrives, Mainoo could play a more attacking role with Fernandes playing in the attacking midfielder role
Attack:
Easiest selection for Ten Hag as Rashford, Hojlund and Garnacho pick themselves. With the arrival of Joshua Zirkzee, return of Sancho and the pre-season form of Amad Diallo, ten Hag does have the potential to change things up among the front three.
MAN UNITED’S POTENTIAL 4-3-3 FORMATION FOR THE 2024/25 SEASON
