FC Twente are the visitors to Old Trafford for Wednesday’s Europa League opener, as Erik ten Hag aims for a winning start in Manchester.
The Dutchman began his playing career with the Eredivisie side before enjoying two further stints in Enschede.
Unbeaten in three outings, the United chief is keen to generate further momentum against a team currently occupying fourth place in the Dutch top flight.
With competitive trips to Portugal and Turkey following the Wednesday evening European opener, an assured start will set the tone for future game weeks.
Team News
Rotation is likely with Tottenham Hotspur arriving in the North West on Sunday.
Marcus Rashford was a surprise omission for last weekend’s stalemate in Selhurst Park, with Alejandro Garnacho replacing the Wythenshawe man on the left flank.
Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount joined Rashford on the substitutes bench against Crystal Palace following injury layoffs, with both in contention to start.
Joshua Zirkzee has impressed with his ability to link play and drop deep in creating for his teammates. But, goals have proved difficult to come by, and he would relish the opportunity to upset the Dutch visitors.
Victor Lindelof has returned to first-team training, while Tyrell Malacia is also closing in on one of the more anticipated returns in recent years.
However, it is unlikely that either will feature.
Unfortunately, Leny Yoro is still absent following his pre-season disappointment, with November touted as a likely return date for the Frenchman.
Joseph Oosting’s side has enjoyed a good start domestically, hammering Almere 5-0 at the weekend.
The Tukkers last travelled to England for a competitive fixture in 2011, drawing 1-1 with Fulham in a Europa League tie.
Oosting will have to navigate this Manchester journey without Michal Sadilek – a vital component in the success of last season’s third-placed finish.
As we await a first-ever fixture between the sides, history bodes well for Manchester United against Dutch opponents.
The 20-time English champion have lost just one of their nine home games against Eredivisie sides (winning seven), with a 2-1 defeat to Ajax in 2012 the sole blemish.
Twente have struggled against English opposition, winning once in 13 attempts – although, that did come in their final outing against the Cottagers.
It remains unclear if Bruno Fernandes will feature for Ten Hag’s side. Since his debut in the competition in 2018, the Portuguese has contributed to more goals than any other player (20 goals and 15 assists).
How do you see this one playing out?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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