Manchester United has made one change from their last Premier League match for the clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday evening. Despite scoring his first goal of the season against Southampton and netting twice in the midweek Carabao Cup win over Barnsley, Marcus Rashford has been dropped from the starting lineup. Alejandro Garnacho takes his place, marking a bold decision to rest the 26-year-old after his recent performances.
This means Christian Eriksen retains his spot in midfield, while summer signing Manuel Ugarte is limited to another substitute appearance, joining Casemiro on the bench.
Speaking ahead of the match, Erik ten Hag discussed his team selection and the tough choice to drop Rashford despite his strong performances. He emphasized the importance of balancing the squad and adapting tactics to best suit the game against Crystal Palace.
It was not difficult because we need to rotate,” he told MUTV. “Alejandro Garnacho also needs starts to improve and gain more power. Therefore, we rotate.”
Although Manuel Ugarte started in the midweek win against Barnsley in the League Cup, he will be on the bench against Crystal Palace as Ten Hag looks to gradually integrate him into the team.
He added, “Ugarte needs time to adapt to English football. He will be great for us, and we want to integrate him slowly and in the right way.”
United XI:Onana; Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, Dalot; Mainoo, Eriksen, Fernandes (c); Amad, Garnacho, Zirkzee.
Subs:Bayindir, Evans, Maguire, Casemiro, Mount, Ugarte, Antony, Hojlund, Rashford.
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