Bragging rights and a trophy are up for grabs this weekend when Manchester United face local rivals Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley Stadium.

Having offered the much-maligned Erik ten Hag a new contract following last season’s FA Cup triumph – the victory that ensured United’s place in the Community Shield – the Red Devils have been attempting to make some much-needed progress during pre-season. Two lucrative signings have improved morale but some concerning friendly results have served as a reality check.

Of course, pre-season is just pre-season and means absolutely nothing come that opening game of the Premier League campaign next week. However, it’s perhaps indicative of what to expect from United at the beginning of 2024/25. If that’s true, supporters may be a little worried.

However, a win over fierce foes Man City on Saturday will offer renewed belief. Pep Guardiola’s Premier League champions haven’t won the Community Shield since 2019 and are generally slow starters year on year. United will be aiming to take advantage of any rustiness in the capital.

Here is how Ten Hag could line his United side up for Saturday’s battle.

GK: Andre Onana – A big season lies in wait for Onana, who has had the entirety of pre-season to make improvements. The Cameroon international’s gaffes won’t be tolerated for much longer at Old Trafford.

RB: Diogo Dalot – With Aaron Wan-Bissaka potentially being replaced by Noussair Mazraoui, Dalot will want to show his worth to Ten Hag as swiftly as possible in 2024/25. However, strong performances last term mean his starting spot is nailed down right now.

CB: Jonny Evans – Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are major doubts, while Leny Yoro is sidelined for several months. Somehow, United could be starting the season with 36-year-old Evans in the heart of defence.

CB: Lisandro Martinez – Having won the Copa America with Argentina this summer, Martinez is yet to feature in pre-season. He returned from injury to offer an exquisite display in last season’s FA Cup final against Saturday’s opponents and keeping him fit will be integral to United’s success this term.

LB: Luke Shaw – Another United defender who desperately needs an injury-free run, Shaw was utilised in the closing stages of Euro 2024 by Gareth Southgate. With Tyrell Malacia still sidelined, he may be rushed back into the XI against Man City.

CM: Casemiro – There may have been an expectation that Casemiro would have been shipped off to the Saudi Pro League by early August, but the veteran Brazilian is still knocking about the Old Trafford dressing room. Until United sign a new defensive midfielder, he’s likely to be a starter.

CM: Kobbie Mainoo – Whether Mainoo or Shaw are fit enough to feature from the start remains to be seen after their Euro 2024 excursions but the former is guaranteed to start if sharp enough. A scorer in last season’s FA Cup final, he is United’s next great hope.

RW: Amad Diallo – Some terrific pre-season displays have shown why it could be an enormous season for young Diallo. Again, keeping fit is key given last season’s issues, but his electric pace gives United an excellent option on the right flank.

AM: Bruno Fernandes – United’s captain will be primed to take advantage of Rodri’s potential absence at Wembley. He is undoubtedly the Red Devils’ chief creator, evidenced by his exceptional assist in last season’s FA Cup final.

LW: Marcus Rashford – The upcoming campaign could be make-or-break for Rashford after a disappointing 2023/24. He’s looked sharp in pre-season and has an encouraging record against Man City.

ST: Joshua Zirkzee – With Rasmus Hojlund sidelined, could there be a debut for Zirkzee? The £36m striker will be desperate to feature and make a positive first impression against United’s city rivals.

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