In addition to Lisandro Martinez, who just joined Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo also starts the match against Rayo Vallecano despite doubts regarding his future with the team.
The Argentine is able to make his United debut (in front of supporters) at Old Trafford after being unused as a substitute against Atletico Madrid in Oslo.
Erik ten Hag will be playing in his debut game at the illustrious stadium after a preseason tour of Thailand, Australia, and Norway.
Over the past few weeks, as Ten Hag tries to install his style of play ahead of the season, we have watched United’s team grow.
The Reds had a strong preseason with three straight wins, but a tie with Aston Villa and a close loss to Diego Simeone’s team may have brought anyone getting too excited back to reality.
However, despite Ten Hag’s growth following Saturday’s loss, there were benefits to be gleaned from both of those contests.
“I think we contributed extremely well, and I think the performance from our team is really good,” he said to MUTV. “I think it was a rigorous workout.”
He continued, “I believe what I say, our game, our possession game, and our transition game, I believe was extremely fantastic.
“As a result, we pose a serious threat to them. We created opportunities and had weapons, so I was really content at that point.
Additionally, Harry Maguire gave us a good opportunity on a set play, so we had enough, but not enough to win the game, which is always our goal.
Ten Hag will attempt to build on his recent success and win the game this time. In seven days, United will play its Premier League debut against Brighton.
Martinez’s first appearance at the Reds’ home will be an exciting prospect for the supporters.
They will also be looking forward to seeing more of Christian Eriksen, following his impressive cameo yesterday.
There will be opportunities for many players to impress before the season begins, here are the confirmed teams in full:
Confirmed Line-Ups:
Manchester United XI:
Heaton, Laird, Varane, Martinez, Telles, Garner, Van de Beek, Eriksen, Chong, Garnacho, Ronaldo
Manchester United Subs:
Bishop, Kovar, Baillt, Fish, Wellens, Hannibal, Shoretire, Hansen, Savage, Iqbal, Amad, McNeill
Here's how #mufc are lining up vs Rayo Vallecano: pic.twitter.com/3cNQF9WmoZ
— centredevils. (@centredevils) July 31, 2022