Erik ten Hag is enthusiastic about improving his FA Cup performance this season.
Manchester United were defeated in the 2023 final by their now even noisier neighbours, capping off an otherwise promising season for the Red Devils. Such promise has been less visible in 2023/24, though Ten Hag’s team has advanced to the fifth round of the competition.
Away victories over Wigan and Newport County have set up Wednesday night’s match against Nottingham Forest.
United were defeated at the City Ground at the end of 2023, and few would be surprised if the hosts won in midweek. Nonetheless, here’s how Ten Hag may prepare his United team for this cup match.
Nottingham Forest versus Manchester United – FA Cup: TV channels, team news, lineups, and predictions
Manchester United expected lineup vs Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1).
GK: Andre Onana – There will be no rotation between sticks in 2024, even if Onana only keeps two cleets.
RB: Diogo Dalot – One of United’s most consistent performances recently, Dalot could be played at left-back in Luke Shaw’s absence, but Ten Hag decided to go a different path on Saturday with Aaron Wan-Bissaka still sidelined.
CB: Raphael Varane – With defensive absences, United’s centre-back combination is determined by itself.
CB: Harry Maguire – Maguire was fortunate to avoid a red card before netting a late equaliser for the Reds against Fulham. His weekend booking means he is available midweek.
LB: Victor Lindelof – With Wan-Bissaka, Shaw, and Tyrell Malacia all out, Ten Hag has resorted to Lindelof to fill the left-back position.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo – Mainoo has been a beacon of hope for United this season, and he is a safe bet to preserve his spot in midfield.
CM: Christian Eriksen. The Dane has had a sporadic involvement since returning from injury, but Ten Hag might rotate his midfield veterans and replace Casemiro with Eriksen to pair Maino.
RM: Antony – The out-of-favour winger scored his first goal in 12 years in a fourth-round victory over Newport County. Antony is barely receiving Premier League minutes, but he may make another cup appearance.
AM: Bruno Fernandes. In the midst of the tumult, Bruno does not appear to be very involved. Nonetheless, the Portuguese star remains United’s creative soul.
LM: Alejandro Garnacho – Garnacho, like Mainoo, has given the club optimism for the future this season.
ST: Marcus Rashford. Rashford is expected to continue as United’s number nine after failing to impress over the weekend.
