Man United Starting XI vs Sunderland: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Manchester United Seek Response Against Lively Sunderland

Manchester United welcome Sunderland to Old Trafford with renewed optimism, boosted by the return of Amad Diallo. The winger, who “missed last weekend’s defeat to Brentford due to a family bereavement”, is training again and “is back in contention this weekend”. His energy and directness could prove vital against a Sunderland side that arrives full of belief rather than resignation.

Sunderland’s Impressive Start Raises Stakes

Newly-promoted Sunderland have stunned many by sitting fifth after six matches, playing with freedom instead of fear. Manchester United cannot afford a passive start, particularly after their frustrations in west London. Ruben Amorim may look to recalibrate his defence after he “replaced two of his three centre-backs in the second half” against Brentford. That points towards Leny Yoro stepping in for Harry Maguire, while Diogo Dalot may make way for Diallo if Amorim shifts Fernandes across the pitch.

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Midfield Decisions Define Tone

Kobbie Mainoo is forcing the issue, having replaced Manuel Ugarte and impressed with his urgency. Yet “he could be pipped, though, by Casemiro, available again after serving a red card suspension”. Amorim must decide between youthful momentum and veteran control. Either option adds steel against Sunderland’s aggressive press.

Attack Built Around Sesko

“Benjamin Sesko should reprise his role at striker after scoring his first goal in United colours against Brentford”. Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha are tipped to support as dual creators in behind. There is even potential for change in goal as “summer signing Senne Lammens could be in line to make a long-awaited debut” after another erratic outing from Altay Bayindir.

Despite inconsistency, Amorim can at least count on continuity in availability. With “Noussair Mazraoui (thigh) and Lisandro Martinez (ACL)” the only absentees, Manchester United have few excuses. Against such confident opposition, anything less than urgency will be punished.