(4-2-3-1) Benjamin Šeško debut, Mbeumo and Amad on the flanks – Predicted Man United line-up vs Fiorentina, as David de Gea vows to ‘avenge’ his Man United departure
Manchester United’s pre-season preparations are reaching their peak, and all eyes are now fixed on the highly-anticipated clash against Fiorentina — a fixture that promises drama, emotion, and intensity beyond a typical friendly.
The match will mark the debut of Benjamin Šeško, United’s marquee summer signing, while Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo are set to occupy the flanks in what fans hope will be a thrilling new attacking trio. But beyond the tactical intrigue, the return of David de Gea, now donning Fiorentina colours, adds an electrifying narrative — as the former Red Devil vows to “revenge” his Old Trafford departure.
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🔴 All Eyes on Benjamin Šeško: The New No.9
After sealing a sensational seven-year deal from RB Leipzig, Benjamin Šeško is finally set to make his first appearance in a Manchester United shirt. The 21-year-old Slovenian striker has drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland for his height, explosive pace, and clinical finishing. United fans are understandably eager to see what he can offer.
Šeško has been training with the squad at Carrington since completing his medical, and sources inside the club say he’s been “electric” in training, already developing chemistry with Amad and Mbeumo.
His presence at the tip of United’s 4-2-3-1 system could be the key to unlocking the kind of fast, fluid, and deadly attack that manager Ruben Amorim has been working to establish since his appointment.
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⚽ Predicted Man United Starting XI vs Fiorentina (4-2-3-1)
Here’s how Manchester United could line up for the Fiorentina clash:
Goalkeeper:
André Onana
While there’s still debate among fans about who should be No.1 following De Gea’s explosive return with Fiorentina, Onana is likely to retain his spot — at least for this game. Amorim will want to evaluate him under pressure, especially against a team now led by a fired-up De Gea.
Defenders:
Diogo Dalot (RB)
Lisandro Martínez (CB)
Jarrad Branthwaite (CB)
Luke Shaw (LB)
The back four is expected to feature both experience and youth. Branthwaite, another recent signing, will likely partner Martínez, with Dalot and Shaw offering width and recovery speed.
Midfield Pivot:
Kobbie Mainoo
Bruno Fernandes
Mainoo continues to blossom into a midfield general, and his calmness on the ball pairs perfectly with Fernandes’ creativity. With Casemiro rested, Bruno could take on a deeper role — controlling play and launching attacks.
Attacking Midfield Trio:
Bryan Mbeumo (RW)
Mason Mount (CAM)
Amad Diallo (LW)
Mbeumo’s pace and decision-making on the right will give United a new dimension, while Amad’s skill and dribbling will test Fiorentina’s full-backs. Mount, deployed centrally, will have license to roam and combine with Šeško.
Striker:
Benjamin Šeško
The headline act. Šeško will lead the line in his debut match, with the pressure of expectations high. But if pre-season form and training reports are anything to go by, he’s more than ready for the spotlight.
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🧤 De Gea’s Vow: “I’ll Show Them What They Gave Up”
The emotional undercurrent to this fixture comes from none other than David de Gea, the former United goalkeeper now at Fiorentina. After a controversial exit from the club in 2023, De Gea has found his form again in Serie A, helping Fiorentina qualify for Europe and earning plaudits for his leadership.
Ahead of the match, De Gea gave a rare interview to Spanish media, stating:
> “I didn’t get the goodbye I deserved. But I’ve moved on. Now I play for a new club, and I’ll show them on the pitch what they gave up.”
Reports suggest he is extra motivated to keep a clean sheet and deny his former teammates. The reunion with Bruno Fernandes, Luke Shaw, and others who played alongside him for years is likely to be cordial off the pitch — but intense when the whistle blows.
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🧠 Amorim’s Tactical Focus: High Press, Quick Transitions
Manager Ruben Amorim has been slowly implementing his tactical philosophy — a blend of possession-based control and intense pressing. The match against Fiorentina offers an ideal test, as the Italian side plays with a patient buildup and compact midfield.
The predicted 4-2-3-1 formation is expected to morph fluidly during the game, with Mount or Bruno pushing up to support Šeško, while Mbeumo and Amad tuck inside to create overloads. Mainoo will likely drop deep to start moves and shield the defense.
Amorim’s priority will be watching how the front four link up — particularly Šeško’s movement and decision-making when isolated or running in behind the defensive line.
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🔍 Match Storylines to Watch
1. Šeško vs. De Gea
It’s a perfect narrative arc — the club’s new goal-scoring hope against their former goalkeeping legend. If Šeško can score in his debut against De Gea, it’ll be the ultimate symbolic moment.
2. Mbeumo’s Integration
Bryan Mbeumo is another fresh face, and this will be a key opportunity to test his chemistry with teammates. His pace and composure could be vital in creating space for Šeško.
3. Amad’s Redemption Season?
After loan spells and injuries, Amad Diallo looks sharp. He was United’s standout in a recent friendly, and this could be the year he breaks into the first team regularly.
4. Who Starts in Goal Long-Term?
Though Onana starts here, Amorim’s decision in competitive games may hinge on how both he and De Gea perform in this symbolic fixture. With fans still divided, the goalkeeper debate remains wide open.
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🗣 Fan Reactions: Excitement and Intrigue
United fans have flooded social media with predicted line-ups and emotional tributes to De Gea. Some believe he should never have left; others feel Šeško’s arrival signals a bold new direction.
A few reactions:
“Šeško, Mbeumo, Amad… now THAT’s an exciting front line!”
“All love to De Gea but don’t let him stop us. Šeško hat trick loading!”
“This is the most excited I’ve been for a pre-season game in years.”
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🎯 Final Thoughts: New Chapter vs. Old Legend
The upcoming match between Manchester United and Fiorentina is more than just a pre-season friendly. It’s a symbolic passing of the torch — as David de Gea, a club legend, returns to face the team that once depended on him, while Benjamin Šeško, the new spearhead of United’s attack, begins his journey.
This game will provide valuable insight into Ruben Amorim’s system, showcase the club’s new stars, and give fans a taste of what’s to come in the 2025/26 season.
So as the Red Devils prepare to march out with youth, energy, and ambition, one thing is clear: a new era is starting, and it begins with this game.
Let the battle begin.
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