Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has revealed his ideal starting XI for new boss Ruben Amorim, and youngster Kobbie Mainoo is noticeably absent.
Ahead of Amorim’s first match in charge against Ipswich Town on November 24, Saha suggested a back three of Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez, and Matthijs de Ligt, with Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui as wing-backs.
In midfield, Saha opted for Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes, with Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, and Rasmus Hojlund forming an attacking trio.
Explaining his selections, Saha told BoyleSports: “At the back I’m a big fan of Leny Yoro, he is a confident young player who has a lot to offer the team. He is a real star and I’m very confident about that. He also needs leaders to help him progress and I think Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez can provide that. Harry Maguire is another option, but I don’t expect to see Jonny Evans or Victor Lindelof.”
On Mainoo, Saha noted: “Kobbie Mainoo is very good on the ball but you also need players who have power in there, you need to find that balance. Mainoo has quality but he needs to be given a more creative role. I could see Manuel Ugarte there in some games because he is what teams need at times, a monster in midfield.”
Amorim faces immense pressure to revive United’s season, currently 13th in the Premier League. His team selection against Ipswich will be closely watched, particularly after Saha’s surprising lineup revelation.
Will Amorim heed Saha’s advice or opt for a different approach? The Portuguese manager’s first starting XI will be telling.
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