United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United opened the season with a 1-0 win over Fulham, highlighting both a need for goals and the importance of Lisandro Martinez.

While it created chances, the starting attack failed to hit the back of the net. New signing and substitute Joshua Zirkzee came on to provide the matchwinner with a slick flick into the far corner.

The goal from Zirkzee should elevate him into the starting eleven, as Erik Ten Hag needs a nine that can finish chances. After two bench appearances, Joshua Zirkzee’s assister, Alejandro Garnacho, should start on the left, with Amad Diallo on the right.

In the back, the return of Lisandro Martinez coincided with a solid defensive start for United. Alongside Harry Maguire, Martinez led the Reds to a clean sheet, bullying Adama Traore along the way. The center-back partnership of Martinez and Maguire should continue Saturday. Matthijs De Ligt still needs time to adapt before overtaking Maguire.

With no real threats to each position, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes will start in the first away match of the season.

Best Lineup for Brighton:

Goalkeeper: Andre Onana

Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui

Midfielders: Kobbie Mainoo, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes

Attackers: Amad Diallo, Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho