How Manchester United Could Line up for Pochettino Against Liverpool

Pochettino faces Anfield challenge

The trip to Anfield marks a difficult start for the new manager, as the team attempts to recover from a poor run of form.

Injuries impact starting selection

Pochettino will be forced to adjust his lineup due to confirmed absences ahead of the fixture. Both Carlos Baleba and Benjamin Sesko are ruled out for the trip to Merseyside. With these injuries, the new manager must balance his preferred tactical shape with the available personnel, as he looks to instill confidence in a squad that has underperformed this term.

Defensive strategy remains uncertain

While Pochettino has utilized a three-man defensive structure in other roles, he may opt for a more traditional four-man backline against Liverpool. Diogo Dalot is expected to start at right-back, potentially alongside Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven in the center of the defense.

While Harry Maguire offers experience, the inclusion of Yoro and Heaven could provide the pace required to counter Liverpool’s attacking threat. Patrick Dorgu remains the primary candidate to start at left-back.

Midfield structure requires adjustment

The incoming manager lacks a natural holding midfielder. The team lacks a clear candidate for a deep-lying playmaker role, forcing a choice between Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans.

Pochettino has a history of developing young talent, which may lead him to favor Mainoo in the middle of the park. Tielemans could provide necessary balance in a box-to-box role, supporting a more attacking setup as the team transitions to a new style of play.

Attacking options for United

The forward line may see Bryan Mbeumo take a central role if United’s striking options remain limited. If Mbeumo leads the line, Amad Diallo is a candidate to start on the right wing, while Matheus Cunha is expected to provide a creative spark from the left. This formation would mirror the 4-3-3 attacking shape Pochettino has recently employed while managing the United States national team.

Senne Lammens may retain his starting goalkeeper position

Will Senne Lammens remain the starting goalkeeper? Yes, Lammens is the established first-choice goalkeeper and is expected to retain his position under the new management.

While Pochettino has utilized a deeper player in the middle of the park with the USA, squad limitations at Manchester United may force him to build a more attacking midfield instead. The game takes place on Sunday, November 22, following the conclusion of the final international break of 2026.

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