Saturday night's Premier League spectacle is set to unfold at the Gtech Community Stadium, featuring Brentford hosting Manchester United in what promises to be a riveting clash.
The encounter comes at a crucial juncture for both teams, with significant implications for their respective aspirations in the league.
Match Preview
Brentford, coming off a demoralizing 2-1 defeat to Burnley before the international break, faces the daunting task of confronting Manchester United, who emerged triumphant from a captivating FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool. The Bees find themselves struggling to find form, grappling with the pressures of avoiding relegation.
On the other hand, Manchester United, under the stewardship of Erik ten Hag, enters the match with a sense of momentum following recent victories over Everton and Liverpool. However, injuries and suspensions present challenges for the Red Devils, with key players such as Harry Maguire, Casemiro, and Lisandro Martinez facing uncertainties.
Ten Hag's tenure at Manchester United has been characterized by mixed fortunes, with notable defeats tempered by impressive performances. Despite a chastening 4-0 loss to Brentford last August, the Red Devils have since exacted revenge with victories at Old Trafford.
Kick Off Time
The match is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 pm on Saturday and will mark the 6th meetings between these side in the top flight since 1992.
Team News
United's FA Cup saviour Diallo got a bit too carried away during the raucous celebrations after his goal - taking his shirt off while already on a yellow card - meaning that he also has a one-match ban to serve.
The Ivorian would have only taken up residence on the bench in any case, but three regular starters in Harry Maguire (unspecified), Casemiro (knock) and Lisandro Martinez (knee) are all touch-and-go at this stage, as are Altay Bayindir and Jonny Evans.
However, Luke Shaw (muscle), Anthony Martial (groin) and Tyrell Malacia (knee) are still out of contention, and the possible absence of Casemiro could see McTominay reprise his role in the middle with Kobbie Mainoo, who excelled on his senior England baptism earlier this month.
Brentford possible starting lineup:
Flekken; Zanka, Collins, Ajer; Roerslev, Janelt, Onyeka, Jensen, Lewis-Potter; Mbeumo, Toney
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Wan-Bissaka, Lindelof, Varane, Dalot; Mainoo, McTominay; Garnacho, Fernandes, Rashford; Hojlund