Manchester United Predicted Line-up vs Newcastle United: Mazraoui Set to Start; Maguire and Shaw Doubtful

Noussair Mazraoui is expected to return to the Manchester United starting XI when they face Newcastle United at St James’ Park on Wednesday evening.

United will look to maintain their unbeaten run under Michael Carrick as they travel to Tyneside. However, the interim head coach has fresh selection concerns ahead of the midweek Premier League encounter.

Defensive Concerns for Carrick

Carrick is currently monitoring the fitness of Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire, both of whom are recovering from illness. In addition, Lisandro Martinez has been nursing a minor muscular problem, casting further uncertainty over United’s defensive options.

Matthijs de Ligt (lower back) and Patrick Dorgu (hamstring) remain sidelined, although the latter is reportedly nearing a return to action.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Carrick offered a cautious update on Shaw and Maguire.

“Yes, we’re hoping so,” Carrick said when asked about their availability. “We’re working towards it. They weren’t feeling too good. We’ve still got a little bit of time before the game and we’ll just have to see how they feel. We’ll obviously give them every chance.”

He added:

“No, it wasn’t an injury. It’s just that both of them weren’t feeling too good. It’s one of those things really, but we’ll just have to see how they are today and tomorrow morning.”

Praise for Fernandes

During the same press conference, Carrick was full of praise for club captain Bruno Fernandes, highlighting the Portuguese midfielder’s consistency and leadership.

“There’s not much more I can add about Bruno,” Carrick admitted. “He’s been here for a long period now and has had success in different ways. Individually, he’s shown what he’s all about — taking responsibility, showing up, facing everything through the ups and the downs.”

“That sums up Bruno as a character and his consistency over such a period. In terms of where he ranks in the club’s history, that’s not for me to decide, but he’s been a major plus and a fantastic signing. The impact he’s had since arriving has been significant, and I’m sure that will continue.”

Predicted Line-up

Senne Lammens is set to start in goal, with United likely to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

In defence, Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are expected to occupy the full-back roles. Leny Yoro should partner Harry Maguire in central defence, although Shaw could come into the side if declared fit, potentially altering the backline configuration.

In midfield, Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo are poised to operate as the double pivot, providing both steel and composure in the centre of the park.

Bruno Fernandes will assume his customary No. 10 role, supported by Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha on the flanks. Benjamin Sesko is expected to lead the line, continuing his recent involvement under Carrick.

Amad Diallo is likely to be named among the substitutes as an attacking option from the bench.

Predicted Manchester United XI

Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Maguire, Mazraoui; Casemiro, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko