As the 2024-2025 Premier League season progresses, Manchester United will be aiming to build momentum as they take on Crystal Palace. This matchup is critical for both teams as they continue to compete at the highest level. With recent injuries and tactical adjustments, the predicted lineups for both teams have been a major point of interest. In this article, we explore the latest information regarding their expected starting eleven, injuries, and key players ahead of this exciting fixture.

Manchester United’s Expected Starting XI

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is facing some injury concerns but is also welcoming the return of key players. After a few tough matches, United’s form has been improving, especially following their dominant 7-0 win over Barnsley in the EFL Cup. This victory is expected to give them confidence going into the match against Crystal Palace.

In goal, Andre Onana will likely start after solid performances in recent weeks. The defense is set to be anchored by the experienced Lisandro Martínez alongside new recruit Matthijs de Ligt. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are expected to play on the full-back positions, providing balance between defense and attack.

Midfield will be crucial for United’s control of the game. Casemiro, who has been instrumental in the midfield, is expected to partner with Bruno Fernandes, providing both defensive stability and creativity. However, the return of Mason Mount from injury will add further depth to the midfield. His playmaking abilities will be crucial in linking the attack and supplying balls to the forwards.

In the attacking third, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho are set to provide the pace and creativity on the wings. Both have been in good form, with Rashford continuing to be a key player for United in attack. Rasmus Højlund, another player returning from injury, is likely to lead the attack, and his presence will be key in breaking down Crystal Palace’s defense​.

Crystal Palace’s Predicted Lineup

Crystal Palace, under the management of Oliver Glasner, will be looking to bounce back from a slow start to the season. Their defensive solidity will be tested against Manchester United’s potent attack, and they will need to be organized at the back to stand any chance of getting a positive result.

Sam Johnstone is expected to start in goal, with Joachim Andersen and Marc Guéhi forming the center-back partnership. Nathaniel Clyne will play as the right wing-back, while Tyrick Mitchell will provide the defensive cover on the left. If Mitchell isn’t fully fit, Jeffrey Schlupp could fill in the role​.

The midfield will feature Jeffrey Schlupp, Cheick Doucouré, and Eberechi Eze, with the creative influence of Eze crucial in unlocking United’s defense. Adam Wharton is another option to start, offering solid defensive coverage and distribution in midfield. Ismaila Sarr could also feature, especially if Palace looks to exploit counter-attacks​.

Up front, Jean-Philippe Mateta will lead the line, with Eddie Nketiah playing just behind him. The attacking duo will look to capitalize on any opportunities that come their way, relying on the supply from Eze and Schlupp​.

Key Battles and Tactical Insights

The matchup between Manchester United and Crystal Palace will likely see a battle for midfield dominance. United’s midfield trio of Casemiro, Fernandes, and Mount (if fit) will try to outplay Palace’s midfielders Eze and Doucouré, with the latter group needing to press effectively and disrupt United’s rhythm. Palace’s defense, led by Guéhi and Andersen, will be tasked with containing the pace of Rashford and Garnacho, while also handling the physical presence of Højlund.

In attack, Crystal Palace will look to exploit United’s defensive vulnerabilities, especially on the counter-attack. With players like Eze and Nketiah capable of linking up play and finding pockets of space, Palace’s strategy will be to remain compact defensively and break forward quickly. United will need to be disciplined in defense to avoid giving away chances in transition.

United’s pressing game will also be crucial. With a high defensive line and a focus on winning possession quickly, they will try to suffocate Palace’s buildup play and force mistakes in their half. However, if Palace can break United’s press, they could cause significant problems with their pace and flair​.

Injury Concerns and Key Absences

Injuries are always a key factor in shaping lineups, and both teams have been dealing with them throughout the season.

For Manchester United, the absence of Luke Shaw is notable, as he has been a consistent presence in the backline. Raphaël Varane remains a doubt, while Anthony Martial’s fitness continues to be monitored closely. The return of Højlund and Mount, however, gives Erik ten Hag more options to rotate his squad and maintain fresh legs​.

For Crystal Palace, their injury list is slightly more extensive. Players like Chadi Riad, Matheus França, and Rob Holding are confirmed to be out for the fixture, leaving Glasner with limited options in defense. The absence of Trevoh Chalobah, who was a recent signing, also weakens their midfield options​.

FAQs 

What is the expected lineup for Manchester United against Crystal Palace?

The predicted starting XI for Manchester United is influenced by recent injuries and fitness levels. Andre Onana is expected to start in goal, with Lisandro Martínez and Matthijs de Ligt forming the central defensive partnership. Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are expected to play as full-backs, providing defensive support and contributing to the attack.

In midfield, Casemiro will anchor the midfield, with Bruno Fernandes providing creativity and leadership. Mason Mount, who is recovering from an injury, is also likely to start, adding depth to the midfield. The attack will feature Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho on the wings, with Rasmus Højlund leading the line as the central striker. Despite missing a few games, the return of Højlund and Mount is a welcome boost for the team​.

What are the key injuries affecting Manchester United’s lineup?

Luke Shaw, a vital part of the United defense, is likely to miss this match due to injury, along with Raphaël Varane, who has been dealing with fitness issues. Additionally, Anthony Martial remains a doubt, although Højlund and Mount are expected to return to the squad after recovering from their respective injuries​.

What is Crystal Palace’s predicted lineup?

Crystal Palace, managed by Oliver Glasner, will feature Sam Johnstone in goal. Joachim Andersen and Marc Guéhi will anchor the defense, with Nathaniel Clyne and Tyrick Mitchell (or Jeffrey Schlupp) providing width from the full-back positions. In midfield, Cheick Doucouré and Eberechi Eze will play crucial roles in both defending and transitioning the ball forward, while Adam Wharton could feature to strengthen the defensive midfield.

Up front, Jean-Philippe Mateta is expected to lead the attack, supported by Eddie Nketiah, who will be a key figure in linking up play and creating chances​.

How are Manchester United’s attacking options shaping up for this match?

United’s attack will be centered around the pace and creativity of Rashford and Garnacho. Both players have been in good form, and their ability to stretch defenses will be crucial against Palace’s relatively compact defensive setup. Højlund, making his return to the team, will be a significant threat in the box, and his physicality will be important in winning aerial duels and holding up the ball for United’s attacking midfielders​.

In Summary

As both teams prepare for this important Premier League clash, the predicted lineups suggest an exciting tactical battle. Manchester United will look to continue their resurgence with a strong attacking setup, while Crystal Palace will aim to disrupt United’s rhythm with a well-organized defense and swift counter-attacks. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter with key players like Rashford, Fernandes, and Eze potentially making the difference. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for both teams as they continue their campaigns in the Premier League.

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