£74m Man United duo could make their full debut against Liverpool tomorrow - view
Manchester United are gearing up for an epic showdown against their arch-rivals Liverpool in the Premier League tomorrow.
With the summer transfer window closed and the squads locked in, the stage is set for a scintillating 2024/25 season.
It’s a fresh chapter for both Man United and Liverpool as they prepare to face off.
The Red Devils have made significant strides in the transfer market under new leadership.
They have backed Erik ten Hag and the onus is now on the Dutchman to deliver.
Meanwhile, the Merseyside club are embarking on its own new era with Arne Slot stepping into the role previously held by Jurgen Klopp.
Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkee could start
We believe Ten Hag could offer full debuts to two of Man United’s new boys.
Matthijs de Ligt joined United from Bayern Munich in a £38.4 million move. He could replace Harry Maguire at the heart of the defence.
The England international made costly mistakes in the 2-1 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion.
He got two opportunities to clear the danger during Danny Welbeck’s opening goal but failed to touch the ball.
It would not be easy for De Ligt to make his full debut against a strong attacking unit.
However, Ten Hag must field his best possible team or another defeat could put his position under pressure.
Joshua Zirkzee could also be named in the starting lineup due to the absence of Mason Mount.
The £35.7m summer signing has already featured twice for United, both as a second-half substitute.
He proved to be the hero against Fulham, netting the match-winning goal.
However, his fortunes changed rapidly the following week. Alejandro Garnacho put the ball in the empty Brighton’s net but not before Zirkzee made the final contact.
The Dutchman was in the offside position and the goal was chalked off. United went on to lose the game due to a late winner from the Seagulls.
Zirkzee could lead the attack with Bruno Fernandes dropping into his favoured number ten spot.