Real Madrid vs. Manchester United: Lineups
The most interesting aspect of the Manchester United lineup will be how they operate to deny space and service to Real Madrid star, and their former player, Cristiano Ronaldo.
All eyes will be on Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as Alex Ferguson's preferred method of containing him, when Manchester United takes on Real Madrid in UEFA Champions League action on Wednesday evening. Ferguson has been using Phil Jones in a defensive midfield role in recent weeks to prepare him for the occasion, and has selected Jones in that role. Expect Jones and Ronaldo to see a lot of each other during the game.
Surprisingly, Antonio Valencia does not start for Manchester United. Danny Welbeck will get a run out on the wing for Ferguson's side.
With Raphael Varane struggling with an injury, Mourinho has picked Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos at the back. Pepe has recently returned from injury, but Varane’s form has been superb as of late. Michael Essien, who has also been in good form recently, does not start as Mourinho looks to attack.
Real Madrid starting lineup (4-2-3-1): Diego Lopez; Fabio Coentrao, Raphael Varane, Sergio Ramos, Alvaro Arbeloa; Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso; Cristiano Ronaldo, Mesut Özil, Angel di Maria; Karim Benzema
Manchester United (4-2-3-1): David De Gea; Patrice Evra, Jonny Evans, Rio Ferdinand, Rafael; Phil Jones, Michael Carrick; Danny Welbeck, Wayne Rooney, Shinji Kagawa; Robin van Persie
For more on the Red Devils, check out Manchester United blog The Busby Babe. For more on Los Merengues, head over to Real Madrid blog Managing Madrid.
