Ruben Amorim has surprised fans with his starting lineup for Manchester United’s Premier League match against Arsenal at the Emirates. The team has undergone six changes from the side that defeated Everton over the weekend, marking a bold approach as Amorim faces one of his toughest tests yet against the second-placed team in the league.
Tyrell Malacia has been named in the starting lineup, making his first Premier League start since May 2023. Harry Maguire steps into central defense, replacing the suspended Lisandro Martinez. This adjustment sees Diogo Dalot returning to his preferred position at right wing-back. Meanwhile, Amad Diallo, a standout performer in recent matches, is rested and begins the game on the bench.
In midfield, Bruno Fernandes is set to play a central role alongside Manuel Ugarte. Mason Mount and Alejandro Garnacho have been positioned in attacking midfield roles, while Rasmus Hojlund leads the attack after being recalled to the lineup, replacing Joshua Zirkzee.
Amorim had previously hinted at rotating his squad during the initial weeks of his tenure, but the extent of these changes for a high-stakes match against Arsenal was unexpected. Notably, Leny Yoro has been included on the bench for the first time since his arrival in the summer, and academy player Godwill Kukonki has been named in the matchday squad for the first time, further showcasing Amorim’s willingness to experiment and give opportunities to young talent.
The starting XI for Manchester United is as follows:
Goalkeeper: André Onana
Defense: Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Noussair Mazraoui
Wing-backs: Diogo Dalot, Tyrell Malacia
Midfield: Manuel Ugarte, Bruno Fernandes (captain)
Attacking midfielders: Mason Mount, Alejandro Garnacho
Forward: Rasmus Hojlund
Substitutes: Altay Bayindir, Godwill Kukonki, Leny Yoro, Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Amad Diallo, Antony, Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee.
This lineup reflects Amorim’s strategic planning and willingness to test new combinations as he continues to establish his style at the club.