How Manchester United should line up against Real Sociedad in Europa League

Manchester United return to action on Thursday night when they host Real Sociedad in their first fixture of the Europa League campaign.

Erik ten Hag's side head into the match on the back of four successive wins and will be eager to keep the momentum going against the La Liga side at Old Trafford. Sociedad have never won against English opponents in Europe (D2 L4), scoring only once across six matches. However, they did avoid defeat in their last match – a goalless draw against United at Old Trafford in February 2021.

In terms of early team news, Cristiano Ronaldo and Casemiro are both expected to start, but Anthony Martial is still sidelined through injury. Here is how the MEN writers think United should line up:

ALSO READ: Ten Hag responds to Bailly's comments

Samuel Luckhurst

Tom Heaton is more deserving of a start — and number two status — than Martin Dubravka. Heaton has still not made his full debut for United and after he was sold a pup by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, he merits more minutes this season.

United could do with retaining some consistency in their spine and Lisandro Martinez is not as at-risk as Raphael Varane. Victor Lindelof could slot in at right-back with Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw recalled.

Casemiro and Fred is a midfield axis with potential for the Premier League and it is a luxury for United they can field two Brazil starters. Antony needs more minutes, Jadon Sancho should be fresh after his relatively early withdrawal on Sunday, while Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo have matchwinning nous.

Rich Fay

United's toughest match in the group stage calls for some key players to start, but there is still plenty of opportunity to rotate and give fringe players a chance.

Dubravka is a free hit in goal,