Manchester United are looking to continue their early form from the 7-0 thumping of La Galaxy earlier this week, when they take on Italian side Roma this week.
In the 7-0 thrashing of La Galaxy, new manager implemented the same formation which he used with the Dutch national side throughout the World Cup, the 3-5-2 formation. The game saw new signings Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera starting for Manchester United for the first time, with the teen Englishmen playing in an advanced wingback position. Ander Herrera started in a more natural central midfield. The first pre-season game against La Galaxy, also saw many youngsters play the second half including Reece James who scored twice for the Red Devils.
The game against Roma will be a much tougher test, with the Italian side of much better calibre than Manchester United’s American opponents earlier this week. Roma beat United’s rivals Liverpool who are starting life without striker Luis Suarez, after his transfer to Barcelona, showing that Roma are a much tougher side than La Galaxy.
It is expected that Manchester United will set up yet again in the 3-5-2 formation, along with the same players from the first half starting in the first half against Roma. While Van Gaal will want to give his younger players a chance to prove themselves, so it would not be a surprise to see youngsters such as Reece James getting some form of game time whether it is the entire second half, or 15 minutes at the end of the game. But due to the tough opposition, Van Gaal will most likely start with what he sees as his current strongest 11. But for sure Van Gaal will make at least six changes throughout the game, so don’t be shocked if we see several youngsters take to the field against Roma. This is another chance for the entire squad to prove themselves.