Tyrell Malacia and Antony start as fans all in agreement over Ruben Amorim's 'strange' team selection
Manchester United fans were left stunned by Ruben Amorim’s team selection ahead of the Red Devils’ Europa League fixture against Bodø/Glimt.
Amorim, 39, will oversee his first match at Old Trafford this evening since becoming the head coach of United earlier in November.
He will be looking to build on last Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Ipswich at Portman Road.
On that occasion, he employed his usual 3-4-3 formation with Alejandro Garnacho, Amad and Marcus Rashford making up the attacking trio.
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However, for the Europa League clash, he has introduced Antony to the side, who will start in place of Amad as right wing-back.
Tyrell Malacia comes in at left-wing back, replacing Diogo Dalot.
Rashford has made way for Rasmus Hojlund, while Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount replace the centre-midfield pairing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.
Lisandro Martinez also returns to the side in place of Jonny Evans.
This is Mount's first start since August, Malacia's since May 2023 and Antony's since September.
Amorim makes six changes from the match against Ipswich, with the United boss also expected to try a new formation.
Fans were quick to give their thoughts on social media.
One said: “Love this man already. We’ll never know what works unless we rotate.”
Another added: “That's a good idea, Antony and Malacia needs to start.”
With a third saying: “Interesting move. The wing-back positions should give opportunities to players for whoever proves themselves there.”
A fourth exclaimed: "Didn’t expect this! Bring it on!"
While a fifth said: "Sounds interesting. I think Antony is well suited for rwb."
A sixth added: "Malacia is finally back! We’re all happy. I can see Mason Mount Masterclass tonight."
Ahead of kick-off United sit on six points from four games in this year's edition of the competition having won once and drawn three times in Europe so far this season.
As for the visitors they sit on seven points with two wins, one draw and one loss to show for their efforts this campaign.
Man Utd team to face Bodø/Glimt
Starting XI: Onana, Antony, Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, Malacia, Fernandes, Ugarte, Mount, Hojlund, Garnacho.
Subs: Bayindir, Heaton, Dalot, Shaw, Casemiro, Eriksen, Mainoo, Amad, Rashford, Zirkzee.
Topics: Europa League, Ruben Amorim, Antony, Man Utd
Luke Davies