Manchester United head to Southampton this weekend in desperate need of a positive result after a rocky start to the new Premier League season. Erik ten Hag’s side have suffered back-to-back defeats to Brighton and Liverpool, piling pressure on the Dutchman early in the campaign. Even their opening day victory over Fulham at Old Trafford was a narrow escape, with Joshua Zirkzee coming off the bench to score the winner.

United fans are eagerly awaiting the debut of Manuel Ugarte, who was not in the team which lost against Liverpool before the international break. The Uruguayan midfielder could be the key to revitalizing United’s midfield after Casemiro struggled in the 3-0 loss to their arch-rivals.

Ugarte’s Fitness and Midfield Dilemma

Ugarte, having played 79 minutes for Uruguay during the international break, is expected to feature in the squad, though his long journey back to Manchester might affect his energy levels in the game. Casemiro’s struggles against Liverpool, coupled with the lack of alternatives in United’s squad to play the deep midfield role, make Ugarte’s availability crucial. The Brazilian looked off the pace and was isolated in midfield, while Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo failed to provide the necessary support. Ugarte’s ball-winning ability and energy could balance out the midfield, especially against a Southampton side desperate to get off the mark.

Injury Headaches

Rasmus Hojlund, Luke Shaw, and Leny Yoro remain sidelined, further complicating Ten Hag’s selection. Hojlund is close to returning after a hamstring injury, but the Dane may not be risked just yet. Shaw’s recovery from a calf injury remains uncertain, while Yoro is not expected back until November. Victor Lindelöf, however, is available again after training during the international break. Mason Mount’s injury setback also keeps him out of action, leaving Ten Hag with practically no midfield options.

Ten Hag’s Tactical Changes After Liverpool Defeat

United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool exposed significant tactical flaws, especially in defense and midfield. The full-backs, Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui, were caught too high up the pitch, leaving gaps that Liverpool exploited. Ten Hag will need to address this by either pulling back his full-backs or proving more cover to the defense with an additional defensive midfielder, especially against a Southampton side that will attempt to score on counter-attacks.

In midfield, the lack of structure between Casemiro, Mainoo, and Fernandes was evident, with the Brazilian often left isolated. Ugarte’s introduction could fix some of these issues, but Ten Hag should opt for a more conservative approach with a double pivot, giving Mainoo more defensive responsibility to prevent United from being overrun again.

Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Southampton

Joshua Zirkzee is likely to start again up front, given his impactful performances so far. Rashford and Garnacho will provide pace on the wings, but the team will need more creativity from Fernandes to break down a well-drilled Southampton defense.

Southampton have endured a miserable start to the season, losing all three of their opening matches. Russell Martin’s side will be hoping to exploit United’s frailties, particularly in defense, but they have struggled with their own issues, including individual errors and a lack of cutting edge up front. Historically, Southampton have struggled against Manchester United, winning just 28 of their 133 encounters. The Saints are winless in their last 15 meetings with the Red Devils, and while United’s form may give them hope, their lack of firepower could see them fall short again.

This Saturday’s early kick-off is crucial for Erik ten Hag and Manchester United. With the team desperately needing a response after their Liverpool humiliation, the inclusion of Manuel Ugarte could provide a much-needed boost to their midfield. Southampton’s shaky start to the season makes them an ideal opponent for United to bounce back, but any further slip-ups could see Ten Hag’s position come under even more scrutiny.

The predicted lineup hints at a cautious approach from Ten Hag, who will be keen to avoid overcommitting players and leaving his defense vulnerable once again. A victory is essential for United, not just for the points, but to rebuild confidence and momentum in what has been a challenging start to the season.