Ahead of the FA Cup final clash between Manchester City and Manchester United, both teams have finalized their starting lineups.
For the Manchester United, Casemiro has been omitted from the starting XI, with Marcus Rashford leading the attack alongside Bruno Fernandes and Alejandro Garnacho. Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez form the central defensive partnership, marking Varane’s farewell appearance for the club.
Manager has opted not to start striker Rasmus Hojlund, preferring Fernandes in the false nine role, supported by Rashford and Garnacho on the flanks. In particular, Rashford will be looking to make a statement after England left him out of their Euro 2024 squad.
John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Mateo Kovacic have replaced Ruben Dias, Manuel Akanji, and Jeremy Doku in the City lineup. Stones, in particular, returns to the starting lineup after a five-week absence.
Speaking ahead of the game, Stones emphasized the importance of balance and readiness for such a significant match against their rivals. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to handle the pressure and secure victory.
Manager ten Hag emphasized the team’s strong spirit and belief, highlighting the importance of bravery and aggression in their approach. He noted the need for a strong defensive presence around Phil Foden to counter City’s threats effectively.
The confirmed lineups for both teams are as follows:
Manchester City XI: Ortega, Walker, Stones, Ake, Gvardiol, Rodrigo, Kovacic, De Bruyne, Bernardo, Foden, Haaland
Manchester United XI: Onana, Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Dalot, Amrabat, Mainoo, Garnacho, McTominay, Fernandes, Rashford
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