How Manchester United Could Line Up Against Real Madrid in US Friendly

How Manchester United Could Line Up Against Real Madrid in US Friendly

Isaac Darko
updated at July 26, 2023 at 12:40 PM
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  • Manchester United and Real Madrid will face off in a friendly at the NRG Stadium in Texas
  • The last time the two European juggernauts played against each other was in August 2018
  • Sports Brief takes a look at how the Red Devils could line up against Los Blancos this week

Andre Onana, who recently completed his £47.2 million transfer from Inter Milan to Manchester United, may have the opportunity to make his debut for the club in Wednesday's pre-season friendly against Real Madrid at NRG Stadium in Texas.

The 27-year-old goalkeeper joined up with Erik ten Hag's first-team squad in the USA and could potentially replace Tom Heaton between the sticks.

In the previous friendly match against Arsenal, the United coach fielded a strong starting lineup featuring newly-appointed captain, Bruno Fernandes, and Jadon Sancho, both of whom scored goals.

Manchester United, Real Madrid, Andre Onana, friendly match
After extending their winning streak to three games with a 2-0 victory against Arsenal last weekend, Manchester United will face Real Madrid on Wednesday. Photos by Ash Donelon/Mike Stobe
Source: Getty Images

These players will be looking to maintain their positions in the attacking line-up for Thursday's match, per Manchester Evening News.

Man United's probable line-up

Summer signing, Mason Mount, has been a regular starter in all three of Man United's pre-season matches following his move from Chelsea.

It is possible he might be joined in the midfield by former Real Madrid standout, Casemiro, potentially displacing the highly-rated youngster, Kobbie Mainoo, from the starting XI.

Marcus Rashford, who was last season's top scorer, made a return to the matchday squad in the previous weekend's fixture after an extended break.

He came on as a second-half substitute against Arsenal and the England international may be recalled to the starting squad, possibly replacing either Alejandro Garnacho or Antony.

This change could see Jadon Sancho shifting from a centre-forward role to one of the flanks.

Raphael Varane, another former Real Madrid player, is in contention to feature and might partner with Lisandro Martinez at centre-back. Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire will be available on the bench as cover.

According to Sports Mole, midfielder, Fred, is expected to miss the upcoming match due to a personal issue, while Tyrell Malacia is ruled out with a thigh injury, leaving Luke Shaw to continue at left-back.

Anthony Martial is scheduled to return to full pre-season training ahead of Thursday's contest, having recovered from a hamstring injury. However, his involvement in the match against Real Madrid remains uncertain.

Amad Diallo is also doubtful but has downplayed concerns about the ankle problem he picked up during the Arsenal game.

Andre Onana, Manchester United, Real Madrid, friendly match
Andre Onana could make his debut for Manchester United against Real Madrid in a friendly. Photo by Ash Donelo. Credit: Build Lineup
Source: Getty Images

Onana seals Man United move

Sports Brief previously that Red Devils fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief after 27-year-old goalkeeper, Onana sealed his Man United transfer.

The move was officially confirmed in a statement by the club on July 20, revealing the keeper had penned a five-year contract at Old Trafford.

"Andre Onana has joined Manchester United on a contract running until June 2028, with the option of a further year, subject to international clearance," the statement read.
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Isaac Darko
Isaac Darko is a La Liga, Ligue 1 and Bundesliga editor at Sports Brief with a Degree in Journalism and Communications from Ghana Institute of Journalism (2010)
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