Manchester United Starting XI vs Nottingham Forest: Confirmed team news and predicted lineup | OneFootball

Manchester United XI v Nottingham Forest: Match Preview and Confirmed Team News

Manchester United are preparing for a crucial Premier League encounter against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. With a significant number of players recovering from injury, United manager Ruben Amorim faces decisions that could have a major impact on the team’s shape and performance. The easing of defensive injuries comes as a welcome boost for United, with both Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro available for selection after injury layoffs.

Photo IMAGO

Injury Boost for United Ahead of Forest Trip

The international break has come at an ideal time for Manchester United, with the club’s defensive options looking stronger after a period of injury woes. Amorim confirmed in his pre-match press conference that both Maguire and Yoro are now fit, which gives United additional depth in their backline. Maguire, who has been sidelined since the end of February with a calf issue, and Yoro, who picked up a foot injury during the Arsenal match in early March, will both be in contention for a place in the squad.

Amorim now faces the challenge of deciding whether to reintegrate one or both of the defenders into the starting lineup. If changes are made, it is likely that Victor Lindelof, who has filled in during their absence, could be the player to make way. The decision will depend on how well Maguire and Yoro have recovered, as well as Amorim’s tactical preferences for this particular fixture.

Unavailable Players and Injury Updates

While United have received positive news regarding some players’ recoveries, others will miss out. Ayden Heaven, who was stretchered off during the Leicester match prior to the international break, will not feature in the match against Nottingham Forest. However, Amorim confirmed that Heaven has avoided a serious injury and is progressing well in his recovery, although he is not ready for this game.

“It was not so serious,” Amorim explained. “He is recovering, [he is] not ready to play, but he will return this season for sure.” The match will also come too soon for Jonny Evans and Kobbie Mainoo, though both players are nearing a return to action, providing United with more options in the coming weeks.

Luke Shaw, who has not yet started a match this season, has resumed training with the team but remains unlikely to feature in this game. “Luke [Shaw] is not ready yet. We are starting to do some drills with the team but we are building Luke,” Amorim added. This cautious approach to Shaw’s recovery is understandable given his long absence.

Potential Changes and Predicted XI

With several players returning to fitness, there could be some changes to United’s lineup. Chido Obi will not be involved, as he has been selected for the FA Youth Cup instead, while Joshua Zirkzee could make a return to the first-team squad. Zirkzee could potentially replace Christian Eriksen in the starting XI, as United look to find the right balance in midfield.

Photo: IMAGO

United’s predicted starting lineup for this match is as follows: Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Yoro; Dalot, Fernandes, Ugarte, Dorgu; Garnacho, Zirkzee; Hojlund. With a mix of returning players and established starters, this lineup looks set to offer a blend of experience and fresh energy as United aim for a crucial three points at the City Ground.

Injuries and Squad Status

United will be without key players for this match. Lisandro Martinez, Ayden Heaven, Jonny Evans, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, and Amad are all sidelined due to injury. While Martinez and Shaw’s long-term absences have been known for a while, the returns of Maguire, Yoro, and others are vital for keeping United’s defensive strength intact during a busy period of fixtures.

Match Details and TV Information

Date and time: 8pm BST, Tuesday April 1, 2025Venue: City GroundTV channel: TNT Sports