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Ruben Amorim has included Alejandro Garnacho in his Manchester United starting line-up for the first time since December 7 for this afternoon’s FA Cup clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
The Argentina international has taken Amad’s place in attack. Garnacho’s inclusion in the starting XI marks his first appearance from the start since being omitted from the matchday squad against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium a month ago.
Garnacho has been joined in being recalled to the starting XI by goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, marking Amorim’s only changes from last Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield. Bayindir’s place in the starting XI was confirmed by the United boss at Friday’s press conference.
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It means Amorim has named the same back-three for the third game running for the first time since being appointed as Erik ten Hag’s successor in November, with Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez lining up in front of Bayindir.
Leny Yoro is once again on the bench, likewise Tyrell Malacia. Midfield cover will be provided by Toby Collyer, Christian Eriksen and Casemiro.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has not been included in the matchday squad after being left out of the travelling squad that made the journey down to the capital on Saturday evening. Amorim, speaking at Friday’s press conference, said he had recovered from the illness-related issue that saw him miss the draw with Liverpool.
United starting XI: Bayindir; De Ligt, Maguire, Martinez; Mazraoui, Ugarte, Mainoo, Dalot; Garnacho, Hojlund, Fernandes.
United substitutes: Onana, Malacia, Yoro, Collyer, Casemiro, Eriksen, Amad, Antony, Zirkzee.