Manchester United Starting XI vs Wolves: Confirmed team news and predicted lineup

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·20 April 2025

Manchester United Starting XI vs Wolves: Confirmed team news and predicted lineup

Strategic Rotation Expected for Old Trafford Clash

Manchester United return to Premier League action against Wolves on Sunday afternoon, but all eyes at Old Trafford are firmly fixed on European glory. Following Thursday’s exhausting 5-4 extra-time victory over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals, manager Ruben Amorim is poised to rotate his squad — a move influenced by both physical fatigue and strategic prioritisation.

With Champions League qualification hinging on Europa League success rather than domestic form, Amorim has signalled his intent to rest several first-team regulars. “We will rest players who are at risk of injury,” he said in the aftermath of the Lyon thriller. Diogo Dalot, who featured heavily in that contest, was highlighted as “really tired” and could be among those afforded a breather.

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Youthful Options and Tactical Tweaks

One of the main beneficiaries of the reshuffle could be 16-year-old striker Chido Obi. While ineligible for Europa League fixtures, Obi has been identified by Amorim as a player who will “get more chances”, especially with Joshua Zirkzee sidelined for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury. Obi now steps up as Rasmus Højlund’s primary deputy.

At the back, options remain tight. Both Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven are unavailable, placing additional strain on the centre-back pool. Victor Lindelöf and Noussair Mazraoui — who missed the end of Thursday’s match due to personal matters — are available once again and could return to the starting XI. Jonny Evans has resumed training, but a lack of match fitness may limit his involvement.

Mazraoui, typically used in a back three under Amorim, may shift to a wing-back role should Dalot sit out. Luke Shaw offers further versatility and is likely to be given more minutes as he works towards full sharpness, despite giving away a late penalty against Lyon.

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Key Midfield Figures Set for Starting Roles

Amorim’s midfield is likely to include Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Christian Eriksen — all of whom made substitute appearances against Lyon and are expected to start against Wolves. Bruno Fernandes remains a wildcard; while he is known for his relentless availability, the United captain may finally get a rare rest.

Harry Amass, the teenage left-sided defender, could keep his place after recent encouraging showings. With squad depth being tested, fringe players will have a valuable opportunity to make their mark.

Andre Onana, who reclaimed his starting spot in midweek, is expected to retain his place between the posts.

Injury List Highlights United’s Thin Ranks

United remain without Lisandro Martínez, Amad Diallo, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Ligt, Ayden Heaven, and Toby Collyer. Evans, though training, remains a doubt for Sunday’s fixture.