Ralf Rangnick’s Manchester United side host Watford desperate for a win to maintain their top four challenge.
Arsenal’s last-gasp victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers ensured Mikel Arteta’s team are just one point behind the Red Devils with two games in hand. So, Man Utd simply can’t afford to slip up against relegation candidates Watford.
Claudio Ranieri’s side have won just once in their past 13 games in the Premier League, while Man Utd haven’t lost in the league since the first game of 2022. However, it won’t be easy for Rangnick’s side given the fact Watford are scrapping down in 19th place.
One man Man Utd will be able to turn to, however, is Paul Pogba, who is set to make his third consecutive start for the first time since September. The Frenchman starred in the win over Leeds and started against Atletico Madrid in midweek, although he was replaced by Nemanja Matic with 25 minutes left to play.
It was Anthony Elanga’s equaliser against Atleti that ensured the tie is level heading into the second-leg, and the young Swedish winger may well be rewarded with a start in the league, looking to add a third goal in three games following his strike against Leeds last weekend.
Predicted Man Utd Starting XI vs Watford
David de Gea has been at his shot-stopping best this season, and while the other elements of his game haven’t been quite as impressive, he will still start over Dean Henderson.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka couldn’t even earn a start over Victor Lindelof at right-back in midweek so his time at the club may be coming to an end, and with Diogo Dalot set to return, the Portuguese international will go straight back into the starting XI.
Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire will play together at the heart of defence, while Luke Shaw with be at left-back.
Fred and Pogba are the most likely duo to play as the double pivot, with Bruno Fernandes just in front.
Elanga’s goal-scoring form should see him start, and Marcus Rashford will be the one to make way, with Jadon Sancho starting on the left.
With Edinson Cavani injured, Cristiano Ronaldo will start through the middle.
