Manchester United are set to kick off their Europa League campaign with a home fixture against Dutch side FC Twente at Old Trafford. With United aiming to recover from a frustrating goalless draw against Crystal Palace in the Premier League, manager Erik ten Hag will be eager for his side to deliver a statement performance.

Although United dominated proceedings at Selhurst Park, they were unable to convert their chances, extending their unbeaten run to three games. However, the team managed another clean sheet, further solidifying their defensive form. With European competition presenting a fresh challenge, Ten Hag will be keen to secure a winning start, especially after losing three consecutive European openers in recent seasons.

Defensive Stability to Continue

In goal, Andre Onana is expected to start once again. The Cameroonian shot-stopper has been crucial for United’s defensive solidity, earning his second successive clean sheet over the weekend. Another solid outing will give United the platform to build on as they target a successful European campaign.

The full-back options remain limited, with Ten Hag likely to field Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot on the right and left flanks respectively. Dalot, in particular, impressed with a standout performance against Palace and will be key to United’s forward play from the left side.

At center-back, Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez are expected to resume their partnership. De Ligt’s experience in European competition, including starting the 2017 Europa League final against United for Ajax, gives United’s defense a commanding presence alongside Martinez’s aggressive playstyle.

Ugarte Set for Full Start?

In midfield, the spotlight falls on Manuel Ugarte, the Uruguayan international who could make his second start for United. After a substitute appearance against Palace, Ugarte’s defensive presence at the base of midfield could be crucial to break down Twente’s attacks. His inclusion will allow the more advanced midfielders, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes, to dictate play further up the pitch.

Mainoo’s rise under Ten Hag has been a positive development, and the young midfielder looks set to play a key role once again. His energy and ability to break the lines could be vital in United’s bid to control the midfield battle. Bruno Fernandes, United’s talisman, will operate in his preferred attacking midfield role, tasked with creating chances for the forwards.

Zirkzee to Lead the Line

Up front, Joshua Zirkzee, who was a standout performer against Crystal Palace, is expected to retain his place in the starting XI. The young striker was lively and dangerous throughout the match, and Ten Hag may opt to reward his performance by keeping him in the lineup.

On the wings, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are set to provide width and pace. Garnacho, with his dribbling and directness, has been a constant threat to opposition defenses, while Amad’s creativity and sharpness could be key in breaking down Twente’s defense. Their inclusion means that Marcus Rashford, still regaining form, may be used as an impact substitute for the second consecutive game.

Predicted Manchester United XI vs Twente:

• GK: Onana
• RB: Mazraoui
• CB: De Ligt
• CB: Martinez
• LB: Dalot
• CM: Ugarte
• CM: Mainoo
• CAM: Fernandes
• RW: Amad
• ST: Zirkzee
• LW: Garnacho

With United looking to bounce back and start their Europa League campaign on a positive note, the combination of youthful energy and defensive stability could see them break their European opening day hoodoo and set the tone for a successful group stage.