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

BSC Young Boys v Manchester United: Group F - UEFA Champions League
BSC Young Boys v Manchester United: Group F - UEFA Champions League

Right-back - Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Manchester United v Brentford - Pre-season Friendly
Manchester United v Brentford - Pre-season Friendly

Aaron Wan-Bissaka was heralded as a smart signing when Manchester United acquired him from Crystal Palace in 2019 for £49.5 million.

Wan-Bissaka is excellent defensively, but contributes little going forward. His deficiencies in attack have been highlighted on a regular basis. A consistent feature in the Manchester United first XI since his arrival, his place as a starter is no longer secure.

His red card against Young Boys in the Champions League created huge problems for his club. With Diogo Dalot awaiting an opportunity to oust Wan-Bissaka from the first XI, the 23-year-old will have to improve soon.


Centre-back - Raphael Varane

Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester United - Premier League
Wolverhampton Wanderers v Manchester United - Premier League

Raphael Varane would most likely not have entered the field against Young Boys had it not been for Wan-Bissaka's dismissal.

Varane has enjoyed an excellent start to his stint at Manchester United. One of the best centre-backs in the world, the 28-year-old has looked assured at the back. Varane has already formed a strong partnership alongside Harry Maguire for Manchester United.

Victor Lindelof has been the preferred right-sided centre-back for Solskjaer since the Norwegian's arrival. The Swede is now the third-choice centre-back, behind Varane and Maguire.


Centre-back - Harry Maguire

Manchester United v Sheffield United - Premier League
Manchester United v Sheffield United - Premier League

Harry Maguire has fortified Manchester United's defence since his arrival from Leicester City in 2019.

The England international is a ball-playing centre-back who excels aerially. The captain of Manchester United, Maguire is an extremely fit athlete. Comfortable on the ball and physically gifted, Maguire's lack of pace has been criticized. However, Varane is a pacy defender who complements Maguire well.

The 28-year old is an important member for both club and country. Maguire is one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League and his presence is vital for Manchester United.


Left-back - Luke Shaw

Manchester United v Leeds United - Premier League
Manchester United v Leeds United - Premier League

Luke Shaw has been one of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's biggest successes as Manchester United manager.

An under-confident young player was converted into one of the best left-backs in the world under Solskjaer's management. Shaw is a physically-dominant, fast left-back who has become renowned for his passing and crossing ability. The 26-year-old has developed really well.

Shaw's development has not always been linear, with serious injury issues hampering his progress. The England international has worked hard to reach where he is right now.


Also Read: 5 players who peaked too early

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