The Football Faithful
·12. Januar 2025
The Football Faithful
·12. Januar 2025
Manchester United begin their defence of the FA Cup with a tough third-round tie at Arsenal.
The two most successful sides in the competition’s history meet early on at the Emirates. United won the FA Cup for the 13th time last season after former manager Erik ten Hag guided the Red Devils to success over Manchester City at Wembley. Only Arsenal (14) have lifted the trophy on more occasions.
Ruben Amorim is hoping to lead Manchester United to a first win in almost a month. The club’s five-game winless run has included a Carabao Cup exit and defeats to Bournemouth, Wolves and Newcastle in the Premier League.
However, last weekend’s 2-2 draw at Liverpool was a much-improved performance. Amorim’s side held the Premier League leaders at Anfield in a display that should serve as the blueprint this weekend.
Arsenal are seeking a response of their own, having lost 2-0 to Newcastle in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie in midweek.
Ruben Amorim has had another full week on the training ground with his squad and could opt for minimal rotation at Arsenal. The Portuguese coach has confirmed that second-choice goalkeeper Altay Bayindir will be given the nod in goal.
Marcus Rashford is unlikely to be involved as his representatives continue negotiations over a move away from Old Trafford. However, Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho should be involved despite suggestions that the club will consider significant offers for the pair.
Mason Mount (thigh), Victor Lindelof (unspecified) and Luke Shaw (calf) are confirmed absentees.
Manchester United predicted XI: Bayindir; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Ugarte, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Hojlund.
Arsenal host Manchester United in the FA Cup’s third round on Sunday 12th January 2025. Kick-off at the Emirates Stadium will be at 3pm GMT.
Arsenal’s third-round clash with Manchester United will be shown on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport Online.
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