Manchester United are gearing up for their biggest game since the end of the Sir Alex Ferguson era – the UEFA Europa League final.
Wednesday night’s game against Eredivisie side Ajax provides a chance to fill the only empty spot in the Old Trafford trophy cabinet, for United have never won the Europa League.
The game also bears significance for the city of Manchester – a win would mean a lot, given the recent terror attack in the city and the burden that brings.
To be able to celebrate the success of a Manchester club in a huge European game would further underline the stubborn and determined spirit of the people of the city, as they look adversity in the eye and refuse to be defeated by it.
Jose Mourinho has many key tactical decisions to make. Who starts at centre-back, in place of the injured Marcos Rojo and the suspended Eric Bailly? Who should play through the middle of the attack, behind the striker? And who should command the flanks?
It is abundantly clear that the likes of Marcus Rashford and Antonio Valencia will start the game, given their crucial roles in the side – but there are plenty of holes to fill. Here is our predicted United starting eleven…
