Option 1: Minor changes from Chelsea game
With Michael Carrick still in charge of Man United for the Arsenal game, he might not change up his system too much. Back at Old Trafford, he’ll probably go back to the 4-2-3- 1 formation which has been the club’s staple in recent years.
Cristiano Ronaldo is very likely to be back in the starting lineup after being benched against Chelsea. After watching Eric Bailly and Alex Telles play well against Chelsea, the defensive duo could be given another chance in this one.
Option 2: Multiple changes from last game
Harry Maguire is back in contention for selection after being suspended for the Chelsea clash. He’s in line to return to the starting XI, as is Luke Shaw, if able to fully recover for the game.
With so many games ahead in December, Carrick could decide to rotate his squad around. He can replace Scott McTominay with Donny van de Beek and also rest Marcus Rashford, who looked sloppy in the last game. Mason Greenwood is fit again, so he could start to add that extra goal-scoring option.
Option 3: Same formation as Chelsea clash
Carrick’s experiment of lining up a 4-1-2-1-2 formation against Chelsea ultimately worked out. United got a draw, which could’ve been a win if not for the controversial penalty. He could run the same system against the Gunners to stop them from exposing United’s defensive vulnerabilities.
If rotation needs to be done, Van de Beek could replace Bruno Fernandes and Ronaldo can come in for Rashford to play alongside Jadon Sancho.
A few defensive could also be made to keep the backline sharp. But if this formation is played, it remains to be seen whether United can play the thrilling attacking football Old Trafford craves for.
