(4-2-3-1) Maguire as a Striker, Amad Diallo and Martinez Back from Injury: Predicted Man United Line-Up vs Bournemouth – As Ruben Amorim Makes Crucial Changes to Previous XI
With Manchester United gearing up for a pivotal Premier League clash against Bournemouth, all eyes are on newly linked manager Ruben Amorim and the potential tactical reshuffle that could come with his philosophy—even before he’s officially in charge. While Erik ten Hag remains at the helm for now, speculation around future systems and selections is heating up, especially with key players returning from injury and United’s top-four hopes hanging by a thread.
One surprising element in the predicted line-up? Harry Maguire leading the line as a striker in a 4-2-3-1 system—a drastic but not entirely unimaginable tactical shake-up given United’s current injury crisis up front. With both Anthony Martial and Rasmus Højlund struggling with fitness concerns, and the club’s attacking options stretched thin, drastic times may call for drastic measures.
Let’s break down the predicted line-up for Manchester United vs Bournemouth, the rationale behind these bold changes, and what Ruben Amorim’s influence might mean for United’s shape going forward.
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Formation: 4-2-3-1 – A Familiar Shape with Unfamiliar Faces
Manchester United’s default formation under Ten Hag has been the 4-2-3-1, but with Ruben Amorim renowned for his dynamic systems at Sporting CP (usually favoring a 3-4-3 or variations of a 3-5-2), there’s speculation that United may soon pivot to a more progressive or possession-oriented style. However, for this match against Bournemouth, the 4-2-3-1 remains the most likely structure—but with some surprise personnel choices.
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Goalkeeper: André Onana
Despite a turbulent debut season filled with scrutiny, André Onana is expected to retain his spot in goal. The Cameroonian has shown flashes of the ball-playing ability that initially drew Ten Hag to him. Against a well-organized Bournemouth side, Onana’s distribution could be key to breaking the press and launching quick transitions.
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Defenders: Wan-Bissaka, Varane, Martinez, Shaw
With Lisandro Martinez finally back from injury, United’s defense looks significantly stronger. His left-footed balance and aggressive ball-winning make him a vital component. Raphael Varane, also recently rotated due to fitness concerns, should partner him if available, offering composure and experience.
On the flanks, Aaron Wan-Bissaka is expected to start at right-back given Diogo Dalot’s recent inconsistency. On the left, Luke Shaw’s return to training is a major boost. If fit, he slots straight back in, offering width and a crucial outlet in attack.
Predicted Back Four:
RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
CB: Raphael Varane
CB: Lisandro Martinez
LB: Luke Shaw
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Midfield Pivot: Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo
Casemiro hasn’t been at his best this season, but his leadership and big-game experience still offer value. He’ll likely be partnered by rising star Kobbie Mainoo, who has been a bright spot in an otherwise erratic season for United. Mainoo’s technical ability, maturity beyond his years, and willingness to carry the ball forward make him a perfect complement to the more defensive-minded Casemiro.
This duo will have a key role in controlling the midfield battle against a hard-working Bournemouth side.
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Attacking Midfield Trio: Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho
With Amad Diallo finally returning from injury, there’s real excitement among fans to see what he can bring. The Ivorian impressed during his loan spell at Sunderland and showed flashes of brilliance in pre-season. Expect him to start on the right wing, especially with Antony’s form dropping off.
In the central role, Bruno Fernandes remains undroppable. Even when his creative output dips, his work rate, leadership, and ability to produce moments of magic remain crucial.
On the left, Alejandro Garnacho has nailed down the role with his fearless directness and growing consistency. His partnership with Shaw down the left could be vital in breaking down Bournemouth’s deep block.
Predicted Three:
RW: Amad Diallo
CAM: Bruno Fernandes
LW: Alejandro Garnacho
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Striker: Harry Maguire (Yes, You Read That Right)
This is where things get interesting—and unconventional. With Højlund struggling for fitness and Martial perennially unavailable, there’s a real shortage of central strikers. While Marcus Rashford can play centrally, his recent performances suggest he’s better suited coming in from the left.
Enter Harry Maguire.
It might sound bizarre, but Maguire has been used as an emergency striker late in games before, thanks to his aerial presence and physicality. Against a Bournemouth side likely to sit deep and defend crosses, Maguire’s threat in the air could be weaponized. This would also allow United to play more direct when needed—crosses from Shaw and Garnacho into Maguire could present a surprisingly effective plan B.
While it’s unlikely he starts there in most games, if United are genuinely without a striker, this emergency solution could give them a unique edge.
Predicted Striker: Harry Maguire
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Bench Options:
If fit enough, Rasmus Højlund might be included on the bench, as could Marcus Rashford. Scott McTominay, Diogo Dalot, and Christian Eriksen also offer versatility and late-game energy. Youngsters like Willy Kambwala and Omari Forson may be in the squad due to ongoing injury issues.
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Ruben Amorim’s Tactical Shadow
Although Amorim hasn’t officially joined Manchester United, his rumored arrival already seems to be casting a tactical shadow. His Sporting sides are known for their flexibility, fluid attacking movement, and a strong emphasis on midfield control. If he were hypothetically influencing future plans, we might begin to see players like Mainoo and Diallo integrated more regularly, in line with his youth-forward approach.
It’s also possible that Amorim would phase out more rigid or traditional players in favor of dynamic, versatile talents who can thrive in a modern pressing system.
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Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
GK: André Onana
RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
CB: Raphael Varane
CB: Lisandro Martinez
LB: Luke Shaw
CM: Casemiro
CM: Kobbie Mainoo
RW: Amad Diallo
CAM: Bruno Fernandes
LW: Alejandro Garnacho
ST: Harry Maguire
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Final Thoughts
Manchester United’s trip to Bournemouth is more than just another fixture—it could represent a turning point in a turbulent season. With key players like Martinez, Shaw, and Diallo returning, and potential future managers like Ruben Amorim casting long shadows over the club’s direction, this match is a showcase of both United’s present struggles and its future potential.
Maguire as a striker may raise eyebrows, but in a season full of twists, stranger things have happened. What United need now more than anything is belief, balance, and a bit of b
oldness. This line-up, for all its quirks, might just deliver that.
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Want a graphic of the predicted XI laid out on a pitch?
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