Manchester United are riding high after their dramatic penalty shoot-out victory over Arsenal in the FA Cup, but Ruben Amorim made it clear that his focus is already on the next challenge: a Premier League showdown against Southampton on Thursday night.
Despite the encouraging 2-2 draw at Liverpool last weekend, United’s winless streak in the league now stretches to four matches, leaving them languishing in 13th place. A loss to bottom-dwellers Southampton would undo the momentum they’ve built over the past week.
Amorim to Make Bold Call on Four Man Utd Players Despite Arsenal Triumph
To maintain their progress, Amorim has hinted that he will make changes to his lineup after the demanding FA Cup clash at the Emirates. "It was a good day for us, but now we have to rest the players," said Amorim. "I'm already thinking about the next game; they are really tired, so we need to win. Let’s see."
United are set to make at least one enforced change, with Diogo Dalot suspended for Thursday’s match after picking up two yellow cards against Arsenal. However, Amorim is likely to make additional adjustments due to fatigue, form, and squad rotation.
Here are four key changes United fans can expect when Southampton visit Old Trafford:
- Altay Bayindir
Altay Bayindir could be dropped despite his heroics in the FA Cup shoot-out. The goalkeeper made history as the first Premier League stopper to save a penalty in both normal time and the shoot-out in a cup game. However, Andre Onana remains United's first-choice keeper and has started every league match since joining in 2023.
- Diogo Dalot
Dalot's reckless challenge at Arsenal led to a second yellow card and suspension for the Southampton match, undoing the positive impression he made at Liverpool. Tyrell Malacia could step in for Dalot, and Amorim might consider playing a winger like Antony or moving Amad Diallo deeper, given United’s expected dominance of possession.
- Alejandro Garnacho
Alejandro Garnacho showed improved decision-making in his assist for Bruno Fernandes' goal at Arsenal. He could retain his starting spot if Amorim opts for a formation with Amad as a wing-back, but there’s a strong chance that Amad will return to the front line, pushing Garnacho to the bench.
- Rasmus Hojlund
Rasmus Hojlund struggled to make an impact as United’s attacking focal point against Arsenal, with limited touches. Joshua Zirkzee impressed in his cameo appearance and scored the decisive penalty. Amorim might decide to rest Hojlund and take advantage of Zirkzee's momentum in attack.
United’s match against Southampton is critical for maintaining their momentum and climbing the Premier League standings.
