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Defence: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw
Manchester United's first-choice back four of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof, Harry Maguire, and Luke Shaw retain their places for the combined XI based on their superior displays in 2021 so far.
The two full-backs, particularly Shaw, have been in sublime form for the Red Devils. Shaw has established himself as arguably the best left-back in the league this season as he looks to have returned to top form after a few difficult campaigns at Old Trafford.
His 3.96 shot-creating actions per 90 is one of the highest in Europe at the moment, which, coupled with his 7.52 progressive carries per 90, makes him a dangerous threat. Sergio Reguilon has been impressive in his debut campaign for Spurs, but Shaw has been one of the best in the world in his position this season.
While the 25-year-old has impressed on the attacking front, his teammate Wan-Bissaka has impressed on the other end of the pitch. The former Crystal Palace star ranks in the 94th and 99th (!) percentiles in Europe with a staggering 3.12 tackles and 3.29 blocks per 90, making him one of the hardest defenders to go past in the Premier League. He takes this spot over both Matt Doherty and Serge Aurier in this combined XI.
The world's most expensive defender, Harry Maguire, had a nightmare at Old Trafford the last time the two sides met as him and Eric Bailly were breached on six occasions. Even apart from the goals, he was uncharacteristically poor on the ball and committed an error leading up to Tanguy Ndombele's goal. However, over the course of the campaign, Maguire has gone on to become the most impressive centre-back in the league.
Heading into the game, he has helped Manchester United to four clean sheets in their last five games, conceding just one goal. He has been supported excellently by a resurgent Victor Lindelof, whose displays over the last few weeks have been a remarkable improvement over those at the start of the season.
Lindelof's passing range has been a huge asset to Manchester United as well, and while he may have his flaws — exposed by ex-Red Devil Danny Welbeck in their most recent Premier League game against Brighton & Hove Albion — he has impressed more than his Tottenham counterparts have this year.
He partners his captain Maguire in this combined XI over the likes of Joe Rodon, Toby Alderweireld, Davinson Sanchez, and other Spurs stars.
Also read: 5 Transfers that dramatically changed the fortunes of a club
