Starting lineup, latest injury information, and team news for Manchester United’s match against Lens today

In a highly anticipated pre-season friendly clash, Manchester United is set to take on Lens at Old Trafford. The Red Devils, under the management of Erik ten Hag, are gearing up for an exciting encounter as they fine-tune their squad ahead of the upcoming season. Here’s a comprehensive look at the starting lineup, confirmed team news, and the latest injury updates for Manchester United XI against Lens.

Starting Lineup and Key Players: Erik ten Hag has strategically named a strong starting lineup for the friendly fixture against Lens. The team boasts a blend of experienced campaigners and promising talents, aiming to showcase their prowess on the field.

In the heart of the midfield, Mason Mount partners with the seasoned Casemiro, forming a dynamic partnership that is expected to control the tempo of the game. Diogo Dalot has been preferred at right-back, indicating a rotation strategy as he steps in ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The attacking force is spearheaded by talented individuals such as Antony, Bruno Fernandes, and Alejandro Garnacho, who will aim to unlock Lens’ defense and create goal-scoring opportunities. The trio will provide ample support to the forward line, where Marcus Rashford takes the center stage.

The defensive line, bolstered by the likes of Raphael Varane and Luke Shaw, will play a crucial role in maintaining a sturdy backline and thwarting Lens’ attacking maneuvers.

Injury Update: Manchester United has been dealing with a few injury concerns ahead of the Lens clash. Unfortunately, players like Amad Diallo and Kobbie Mainoo are unavailable due to knee and ankle injuries, respectively. Anthony Martial, who has been nursing a hamstring issue, remains a doubt for the match.

However, there’s positive news regarding new signing Rasmus Hojlund, who passed a medical assessment but has not yet been unveiled as a United player. Hojlund’s official introduction is expected to take place at Old Trafford, potentially setting the stage for an exciting addition to the squad.

Match Outlook and Expectations: Lens, who secured a commendable second-place finish in Ligue 1 last season, will offer strong competition, making this pre-season encounter an intriguing battle to watch. Manchester United’s starting lineup showcases a mix of established stars and emerging talents, hinting at the team’s depth and potential for the upcoming campaign.

As the match unfolds at Old Trafford, fans and football enthusiasts can expect an engaging display of skills, tactics, and team cohesion. This fixture not only serves as a platform for fine-tuning strategies but also offers a glimpse into the Red Devils’ readiness for the challenges that lie ahead in the Premier League.

Keep an eye on Mason Mount’s creative prowess, Bruno Fernandes’ playmaking abilities, and Marcus Rashford’s goal-scoring instincts as Manchester United takes on Lens in what promises to be an exhilarating pre-season friendly.

Confirmed Manchester United XI:

• Starting Lineup: Onana; Dalot, Varane, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mount; Antony, Fernandes, Garnacho; Rashford
• Substitutes: Heaton, Kovar, Lindelof, Maguire, Wan-Bissaka, Eriksen, Hannibal, Pellistri, Sancho, Van de Beek, Forson
• Injured: Mainoo, Malacia, Martial, Amad
• Doubts: Hojlund

Time and Date: 12.45pm BST, Saturday, August 5, 2023 Venue: Old Trafford

Stay tuned for live updates and a riveting display of football prowess as Manchester United takes on Lens in this pre-season friendly encounter.