(4-3-3) vs (4-2-3-1): Šeško vs Gyökeres, Mbeumo’s First League Start – Predicted Manchester United Lineup vs Arsenal as Rúben Amorim Makes Three Crucial Changes
Manchester United are heading into one of the biggest early-season clashes as they prepare to face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. In what promises to be a tactical chess match, new United manager Rúben Amorim has some critical decisions to make, particularly as he weighs a shift in formation, introduces fresh firepower up front, and rewards performance with selection.
Having already hinted at a “must-start” player after the last match, and with new signings starting to settle, the manager is expected to make three crucial changes to the XI that featured last week.
Here’s a detailed look at the likely formation change, the potential starting XI, and the key battles—including Benjamin Šeško vs Viktor Gyökeres, and Bryan Mbeumo’s full Premier League debut for United.
—
Formation Shift: Amorim’s Tactical Evolution
Last week, Manchester United lined up in a traditional 4-2-3-1, a shape they’ve leaned on heavily in recent seasons. However, against a team like Arsenal—who dominate the middle of the pitch and use overloads in wide areas—Amorim is expected to switch to a more robust and flexible 4-3-3.
This shift isn’t just reactive. Amorim has long favored a 3-4-3 or 4-3-3 structure from his time at Sporting CP, and now, with the right personnel at United, he has the tools to implement it.
The 4-3-3 gives United:
A compact midfield trio to counter Arsenal’s double pivot and attacking midfielders.
More defensive coverage against Arsenal’s pacey wingers.
Fluid pressing lanes, especially with high-energy wide forwards like Mbeumo.
—
Mbeumo’s First League Start: The Wild Card
Perhaps the most eye-catching development is the expected full league debut of Bryan Mbeumo, who joined United in a surprise summer move from Brentford. Mbeumo has impressed in training and pre-season matches, earning Amorim’s trust for this massive encounter.
> “He’s relentless, intelligent, and he fits the system I want to build here,” Amorim said in a recent press conference. “He’s earned this chance.”
Mbeumo’s pace and work rate make him a perfect candidate to press Arsenal’s high back line and exploit the space behind Zinchenko, who tends to drift into midfield. His ability to cut in on his left foot also provides a different threat compared to Antony or Garnacho.
Expect Mbeumo to start on the right wing, with freedom to swap with the left-sided forward during transitions.
—
Šeško vs Gyökeres: The Battle of the Big Strikers
Two of Europe’s most exciting young strikers will be on display at the Emirates: Benjamin Šeško leading the line for Manchester United, and Viktor Gyökeres for Arsenal.
Amorim is sticking with Šeško up top, impressed by his movement, link-up play, and aerial ability. While Rasmus Højlund remains a strong option, Šeško’s understanding with Bruno Fernandes and his ability to hold off physical defenders gives him the nod in this clash.
Gyökeres, meanwhile, is Arsenal’s marquee signing from Sporting Lisbon—the very club Amorim used to manage. This personal subplot adds spice to the occasion, with Amorim likely instructing his defenders to stay tight and aggressive on Gyökeres, knowing his strengths all too well.
—
Three Crucial Changes to the Previous XI
So, what are the changes Amorim is expected to make?
✅ 1. Bryan Mbeumo IN (for Antony)
Antony started last match but failed to impact the game significantly. Mbeumo’s directness and pressing power offer more balance against an Arsenal side that starts attacks from the back.
✅ 2. Kobbie Mainoo IN (for Mount)
Mainoo’s pre-season form and recent displays have made him undroppable. He adds calm, vision, and defensive coverage in midfield—a crucial element against Arsenal’s central overloads.
✅ 3. Lisandro Martínez IN (for Maguire)
Martínez is now match-fit and returns to partner Varane. His ability to break lines with passes and defend in 1v1s will be vital against a fluid Arsenal front line.
—
Predicted Manchester United Starting XI (4-3-3)
GK – André Onana
Despite mixed reviews last season, Onana’s ball distribution and reflexes are crucial for Amorim’s system. He’ll need to be sharp against Arsenal’s sharp shooters.
RB – Diogo Dalot
Dalot’s athleticism and ability to join attacks makes him more suited for this tie than Wan-Bissaka, who may be used later to shut down Martinelli if needed.
CB – Raphaël Varane
His leadership and experience in big games are invaluable.
CB – Lisandro Martínez
Fully fit again and eager to bring composure to the back line. A vital player against Gyökeres.
LB – Luke Shaw
Still first-choice, Shaw’s overlapping runs and ability to play inverted give United multiple attacking routes.
CM – Kobbie Mainoo (LCM)
Offers composure, tactical awareness, and the ability to break the press. A major talent ready for a major test.
CM – Casemiro (CDM)
The anchor in midfield, tasked with breaking up Arsenal’s rhythm and shadowing Ødegaard’s movements.
CM – Bruno Fernandes (RCM)
Captain and creator-in-chief. Expect him to press high and float into dangerous half-spaces.
RW – Bryan Mbeumo
Making his full league debut. His pressing, pace, and left foot could be a key factor in catching Arsenal off guard.
LW – Alejandro Garnacho
With Rashford possibly still regaining match sharpness, Garnacho starts. He brings flair, unpredictability, and energy.
ST – Benjamin Šeško
The big Slovenian striker leads the line again. This is his chance to truly announce himself to the Premier League.
—
Bench Options
Rasmus Højlund – an impact sub if Šeško is neutralized.
Mason Mount – could come in to add energy or switch to a 4-2-3-1 mid-game.
Antony – if Mbeumo tires or United need to stretch Arsenal wider.
McTominay – physical presence late on.
Wan-Bissaka – to lock down if defending a lead.
—
What’s at Stake
For Amorim: A chance to prove his system can succeed against elite opposition in the Premier League.
For United: An opportunity to assert themselves as title challengers, or at least signal serious intent.
For Arsenal: A test of how their new-look front line can handle a rejuvenated, tactically disciplined United.
—
Final Thoughts
This matchup promises fireworks—not just because of the talent on the field, but because of the tactical intrigue. Rúben Amorim’s switch to a 4-3-3 system, the bold inclusion of Mbeumo, and the confidence shown in Šeško signal a Manchester United team ready to play on the front foot.
It’s a brave approach. But that’s what United fans have been craving—ambition, direction, and unpredictability.
As kickoff looms, one thing is certain: this isn’t the same old United. And if Amorim’s bold changesclick, Arsenal could be in for a very long 90 minutes.
Leave a Reply