Manchester United's possible starting XI for Premier League encounter against Newcastle United

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Centre-back - Raphael Varane

Raphael Varane in action for Manchester United.
Raphael Varane in action for Manchester United.

Manchester United dropped Victor Lindelof for Raphael Varane against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The decision seemed unfair on the Swede, who has started the season brightly. However, Varane put in a fantastic performance and looks set to keep his place in the XI.

The Frenchman's arrival this season from Real Madrid for £36 million has excited Manchester United fans worldwide. Varane is a genuine superstar of the game, and is a World Cup and four-time Champions League winner. The 28-year old is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the world.

With such pedigree, one could see why Solskjaer decided to start Varane over Lindelof. That choice will likely continue throughout the season. The France international was arguably Manchester United's best player against Wolves.


Centre-back - Harry Maguire

Manchester United captain Harry Maguire.
Manchester United captain Harry Maguire.

Harry Maguire has evolved from a figure of ridicule to one of the best centre-backs in the world in a short period of time.

Eyebrows were raised when Manchester United paid nearly £79 million to sign Maguire from Leicester City in 2019. However, the Englishman has done well since joining the club. Maguire is now the captain of Manchester United and a ball-playing centre-back who has improved his club and country's defense with his presence.

The 28-year old excels in the air and is one of the fittest footballers in the Premier League. Prior to an injury during the end of last season, Maguire was a regular in almost every Manchester United game. The England international once again displayed his qualities at Euro 2020.


Left-back - Luke Shaw

Manchester United's Luke Shaw looks on.
Manchester United's Luke Shaw looks on.

Luke Shaw's transformation from a much-maligned figure at Manchester United to one of the best left-backs in the world has been inspiring to watch.

Shaw's talent was never in question. The England international was a prodigious talent during his Southampton days. This earned him a move to Manchester United in 2014 for nearly £34 million. Shaw enjoyed a bright start to his Manchester United career before a serious injury in 2015 halted his progress.

The 26-year old was often publicly criticized by former manager Jose Mourinho for his performances. Under Solskjaer, however, Shaw has blossomed into one of the best in the world. He is solid defensively and has also become excellent in the attacking third.


Also Read: 5 biggest Ballon d'Or upsets of all time

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