Erik ten Hag has revealed his ideas behind the team he has selected and the kind of challenge he expects from Rayo Vallecano.
Raphael Varane captains the side with Heaton starting in goal. Lisandro Martinez, Alex Telles and Ethan Laird form the back line.
Christian Eriksen starts with Donny van de Beek and James Garner in midfield.
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Tahith Chong, Garnacho and Cristiano Ronaldo will lead the attacking line.
Ahead of kick-off, Ten Hag gave out multiple quotes in preparation for the game.
Speaking of how he sees his side has progressed till now, Ten Hag said, “A few weeks have passed since I started work at Carrington and I can already feel that we have moved in the right direction.”
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On discussing his idea behind his line-up and how he wants them to perform, the Dutchman stated, “Whoever is selected [today], I want to see them playing proactive, attacking football and going out with one clear objective: to win.
"If they do so, then I think Old Trafford will enjoy the spectacle.”
Expressing his feelings on being the Manchester United manager, Ten Hag said, “It is an honour and privilege to be Man United manager.
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"My commitment to the club and its supporters is that I will give everything I have in order to bring success here.”
Talking about his team selection, Ten Hag said, “They are really experienced players mixed with young players at the beginning of their careers. I’m excited to see what comes out of these selections.”
On being asked about his feeling about going out on the Old Trafford turf for the first time as a manager, Ten Hag said, “I have yet to experience it and I am looking forward to it, but once we are on the pitch, it’s all about the players, not me.”
United start with a new centre-back pairing with Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, who will play for the first time together.
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Jadon Sancho was expected to miss this match as he reported feeling unwell ahead of the game against Atletico Madrid.
The English winger has been United’s best player of the pre-season and misses out from the squad in order to recover well ahead of the all important Premier League opener against Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford next Sunday.
Meanwhile, United fans gave a mixed reception to Cristiano Ronaldo as he stepped on the field for his pre-match training. Loads of cheers and ‘Siuu’ was heard. He was then seen applauding both the north and south stands, with the fans reciprocating the gesture.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League, Football
