If anything it’s even more difficult to predict Manchester United teams under Louis van Gaal than it was with Sir Alex at the helm.
Sir Alex loved to tinker, particularly in the big games. And LvG isn’t scared to chop and change, having used more than 30 players so far this season.
He seems to pick horses for courses. Against most sides he’s played with a midfield diamond but against Chelsea and WBA away he played more of a 4-2-3-1 with Fellaini adding muscle Daley Blind in front of the defence.
Considering the overall power of Manchester City and the recent form of Fellaini, you would expect LVG to start with the Belgian again on Sunday. It’s perhaps too early to start Michael Carrick in a game of this magnitude.
But, with Rooney back to drop back into that midfield area when necessary on Sunday perhaps Manchester United will go for a 4-4-2 with proper wide men for a change. While we think that Adnan Januzaj deserves an extended run in the side their is no doubt that Antonio Valencia provides superior athleticism and defensive cover for the right hand side.
LVG confirmed in Friday’s press conference that Valencia is fit to play and the Ecuador international could well start with Di Maria on the other flank. This would keep Manchester United compact but also offer great service from out wide.
While the 4-2-3-1 seems likely for this game there is chance Louis could surprise us again – this time with two more conventional wingers. Here is a possible 4-4-2 with Antonio and Angel getting their boots white. Bad news that Falcao remains injured but when he’s fit he’ll be a sensation.
Manchester United fans: what’s your strongest XI vs City?
