Cunha Injury Concerns Prompt United Line-Up Rethinks
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is considering alternative team formations as concerns grow over the availability of forward Matheus Cunha, who is facing a potential absence. the Brazilian’s possible injury has prompted analysis of how United can adjust their attack, with three potential line-ups emerging as viable options.
One scenario involves recalling Joshua Zirkzee to lead the attack, supported by Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo. Though, reports suggest Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford is uncertain, having played only 90 minutes across five substitute appearances. Ten Hag’s preference for a traditional centre-forward unless facing defensively weaker opponents casts further doubt on Zirkzee’s inclusion.
A second option centers around utilizing Kobbie Mainoo in midfield alongside Casemiro,perhaps allowing Bruno Fernandes to move into a more advanced role. Mainoo missed Friday’s training session but Ten Hag expressed hope for his availability against Everton. This formation would also maintain Mbeumo in a false nine position, alongside Amad, aiming to provide a “strong attacking threat and plenty of creativity.”
should Cunha remain unavailable, United could revert to a system that prioritizes midfield control, potentially sacrificing an attacking player to accommodate Mainoo and allow Fernandes greater freedom further forward. this would likely involve retaining mbeumo in a forward role, but potentially adjusting the wider attacking positions.
