Manchester United Team News: Key Changes and Predicted XI Against Ipswich | OneFootball

Manchester United Team News and Predicted XI vs Ipswich

Manchester United are desperately in need of a positive result as they welcome Ipswich to Old Trafford on Wednesday evening. After salvaging a point in a late comeback against Everton, the mood around the club remains cautious. With Ruben Amorim’s side sitting 15th in the Premier League, having won only two of their last ten league matches, the pressure is mounting. Here’s a look at the latest team news and what we can expect from Manchester United in their next fixture.

Winger Garnacho Could Return to Starting XI

One of the key decisions for Amorim ahead of Wednesday’s match will be whether to include Alejandro Garnacho in the starting lineup. The Argentine winger was left on the bench for Saturday’s clash against Everton, as both Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund started up front. However, Garnacho’s impact from the bench has been notable in previous matches, and Amorim may choose to bring him back into the fold.

Despite being one of the most promising young talents at the club, Garnacho may need to replace one of the starting forwards. “Garnacho could come into the side as Manchester United host Ipswich on Wednesday night,” Amorim hinted. With Zirkzee or Hojlund potentially dropping out, Garnacho could offer an added dynamism to the front line.

Photo: IMAGO

While the teenager Chido Obi-Martin also earned minutes off the bench against Everton, it seems unlikely that Amorim will hand the 17-year-old a first start in such a crucial fixture. The United boss is likely to trust his more experienced players in this high-stakes match.

Midfield Woes and Possible Changes

In the middle of the park, Manchester United are again dealing with a depleted squad. Kobbie Mainoo is sidelined for an extended period, and both Mason Mount and Toby Collyer are also unavailable, leaving Amorim with limited options. Recent performances from Casemiro have been subpar, and this could prompt a change in midfield. Christian Eriksen, who has shown flashes of quality this season, could be paired with Manuel Ugarte as United aim to control the game from the centre.

“Casemiro has not impressed in two recent performances,” Amorim noted, signalling that a change could be on the horizon. A midfield partnership of Eriksen and Ugarte could provide a more balanced approach, with both players able to distribute the ball efficiently while also offering support defensively.

Defensive Line Adjustments

Defensively, United are also facing some difficulties. Lisandro Martinez remains sidelined, and with Toby Collyer also injured, Amorim has been forced to field a back three in recent matches. Noussair Mazraoui, Harry Maguire, and Matthijs de Ligt have been the preferred trio, though the manager does have other options available. Leny Yoro could potentially come in to replace one of the three defenders, should Amorim decide to make adjustments.

With United’s defensive options stretched, maintaining a solid structure will be crucial against Ipswich, a team that has struggled in recent months but is capable of causing an upset if given the opportunity. The defensive pairing will need to remain organised and resolute to ensure that the team secures the three points.

Photo: IMAGO

Predicted Manchester United XI vs Ipswich

Given the injuries and the need for a positive result, Amorim will likely turn to his trusted options while also making a few tactical changes. Here’s how Manchester United could line up against Ipswich:

Predicted XI:Onana; Yoro, Maguire, De Ligt; Dalot, Ugarte, Eriksen, Dorgu; Garnacho, Fernandes, Zirkzee

Injured: Bayindir, Martinez, Evans, Shaw, Amad, Mainoo, Mount, CollyerDate & Time: 7:30pm GMT, Wednesday, February 26, 2025Venue: Old Trafford, ManchesterTV Channel & Live Stream: TNT Sports

With several players missing and others underperforming, this is a match that Manchester United cannot afford to take lightly. Amorim will need to make the right choices to ensure the team return to winning ways as they push for a strong finish to the season.