Alejandro Garnacho starts in predicted Manchester United line-up vs Brentford

Manchester United youngsters Alvaro Fernandez, Hannibal Mejbri and Alejandro Garnacho could well be handed their first Premier League starts against Brentford - but will Ralf Rangnick hand big opportunities to those three or other members of the next generation?

Facing an almost impossible quest to qualify for the Champions League next season, United might instead have to settle for a spot in the Europa League as Arsenal and Tottenham continue to battle for the top four. United found themselves five points behind fourth-placed Arsenal before the latest round of Premier League fixtures having also played two more games.

As attentions turn to next season - with Erik ten Hag ready to take over as manager - United have handed cameos to Hannibal and Garnacho in recent games. Hannibal came off the bench to make his mark, quite literally, during the embarrassing defeat to Liverpool and Garnacho was given a two-minute debut against Chelsea.

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Fernandez, Hannibal and Shola Shoretire went unused in that game. However, the top four is even further away before kick-off against the Bees and that might present at least one of those players with a first start.

Alex Telles would likely miss out if Fernandez were to get the nod, while Marcus Rashford could make way if Garnacho is given his chance. Expected returns for Fred and Edinson Cavani (both calf) mean Rangnick does have a few more options to call upon.

Harry Maguire (knee) and Jadon Sancho (illness) are among those who will remain on the sidelines. Luke Shaw (leg) and Paul Pogba (calf) might not play again this season - while Aaron Wan-Bissaka (knock) is the other injury concern as United