Potential Lineups: BSC Young Boys vs Manchester United
Reuters / Darren Staples
The Champions League kicks off for the Red Devils with Swiss side BSC Young Boys hosting them at the Stade de Suisse Wankdorf.
Both sides have been placed in a formidable group, with Valencia and Juventus being the other teams in the fray.
Young Boys are the unquestioned underdogs, and as of such, a home game may hold several surprises for the English side. Here’s how the two clubs are likely to lineup for the European encounter:
Manchester United
Big things will be expected of Jose Mourinho’s side, who will be bereft of defenders Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones due to injury, while Ander Herrera remains doubtful for the outing and Luke Shaw an almost assured return.
While the temptation of fielding a lesser side will be on, it is likely that the Portuguese gaffer won’t take the risk and field a strong side.
The midfield trio will be the big decision for him to make, with Fellaini, Matic, Pereira, and Fred remaining in contention to be partnered alongside Paul Pogba for the outing.
Up front, the roles of Sanchez and Lukaku are similarly unquestioned, although Marcus Rashford’s fiery form for England may merit a showing in the Champions League.
Goalkeeper: De Gea
Defenders: Dalot, Lindelof, Smalling, Shaw
Midfielders: Matic, Fred, Pogba
Forwards: Rashford, Lukaku, Sanchez
Formation: 4-3-3
BSC Young Boys
The lesser-known Swiss side comes into the fixture in impressive form, and manager Gerardo Seoane will certainly be fancying his chances. Jordan Lotomba and Sandro Lauper are out of the fixture due to injuries.
Club captain Steve Von Bergen was positive when he stated: “We have to put fear, complexes and awe to one side when we play Manchester United. We have been discussing the scenario of what happens if we take the lead against them.”
GK: Von Ballmoos
Defenders: Mbabu, Wuthrich, Von Bergen, Benito
Midfielders: Sulejmani, Sanogo, Sow, Fassnacht
Forwards: Hoarau, Ngamaleu
Formation: 4-4-2