Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim will be looking to bounce back from his first defeat with the club (a 2-0 defeat to Arsenal) when he hosts Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford this weekend. Amorim has rotated his starting line-up frequently and is expected to continue to do so, making seven changes to his starting line-up to regain form and keep United in good form at home.
United’s seven-game unbeaten streak in all competitions came to an end at the Emirates, where Arsenal capitalized on set pieces. Despite this setback, the Red Devils remain a formidable force at home, winning six and drawing one of their last seven games at Old Trafford and keeping three clean sheets in their last four home games.
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest have made great strides this season under manager Nuno Espirito Santo and are currently sitting in sixth place in the Premier League. However, Forest’s form has not been good recently, losing three of their last four games. Despite this, their away record remains impressive, with Forest scoring the third-most points away from home this season.
Amorim could give Lenny Yolo his first competitive start in defence. Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo are likely to return to the starting line-up after impressing in the win over Everton. Joshua Zirkzee, who also performed well in this match, could lead the attack. Man United’s recent home form and Amorim’s tactical tweaks should give them an advantage over a Forest side that has struggled defensively in recent weeks. Forest have the counter-attacking tools to cause them problems, but United’s superior quality and depth should secure a much-needed victory.
Bruno Fernandes: The creative pivot will look to dictate the game and create chances for Rashford and Zirkzee.
Amad Diallo: In an unfamiliar full-back role, Diallo’s talent and energy could be crucial.
Anthony Elanga: The former Red Devil will be eager to make an impression against his former club. The game is an opportunity for Amorim to reiterate his philosophy and for United to return to the top four, and a dominant performance at Old Trafford would do wonders for their confidence ahead of a busy December fixture list.
