Scottish powerhouse Rangers are set to host Premier League giants Manchester United in a highly anticipated pre-season friendly at Murrayfield Stadium on Saturday. Both clubs, coming off the back of opening friendly defeats, will be eager to showcase improvement and build momentum for the upcoming season.
Recent Form
Rangers stumbled in their pre-season opener, falling 2-1 to Dutch side Ajax despite Tom Lawrence finding the net. The Gers will be looking to bounce back and impress their home crowd.
Manchester United, meanwhile, suffered a disappointing 1-0 loss to Norwegian outfit Rosenborg. Erik ten Hag’s men managed just two shots in the entire match, highlighting the need for a more potent attacking display against Rangers.
Team News and Injury Updates
Rangers have concerns over midfielder Nicolas Raskin, who picked up an injury against Ajax. Additionally, James Tavernier, Todd Cantwell, and Nico Raskin are expected to miss out due to various fitness issues.
For United, several key players are unavailable due to extended breaks following international duty. This list includes Altay Bayindir, Diogo Dalot, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes, Rasmus Hojlund, Kobbie Mainoo, Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Alejandro Garnacho, and Facundo Pellistri. Tyrell Malacia remains sidelined with a knee injury.
Potential Debutants
Rangers fans may get their first glimpse of new signings Jefte and Mohamed Diomande, brought in to reinforce the midfield following John Lundstram’s departure to Trabzonspor.
United supporters will be keen to see if recent acquisitions Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro feature. However, Zirkzee is likely to be rested following his Euro 2024 involvement, while £52 million man Yoro may need more time to integrate with the squad.
Predicted Lineups
Rangers (4-2-3-1): Goldson, Jefte, Wright, Nsiala, Barron, Dowell, Balogun, Dessers, Lawrence, Diomande.
Manchester United (4-2-3-1): McTominay, Mount, Wheatley, Onana, Rashford, Amass, Casemiro, Fish, Ogunneye, Antony, Evans.
Key Battles to Watch
The midfield duel between Rangers’ new signing Diomande and United’s experienced Casemiro could prove crucial. In attack, all eyes will be on how United’s Marcus Rashford fares against Rangers’ robust defense led by Connor Goldson.
Managerial Focus
Philippe Clement aims to build on Rangers’ Scottish League Cup triumph and mount a stronger challenge to Celtic’s dominance. For Ten Hag, the pressure is on to dramatically improve on last season’s 8th place Premier League finish, despite securing Europa League football through their FA Cup victory.
The Dutch manager recently had his contract extended until 2026, but fans will demand significant progress after a disappointing 2023/24 campaign.
Venue and Broadcast Information
The match kicks off at 4 pm UK time on Saturday at the 67,000-capacity Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh. Fans can catch the action live on MUTV and Rangers TV.
This clash offers both sides a valuable opportunity to assess squad depth, integrate new signings, and fine-tune tactics ahead of the competitive season. With pride at stake and players fighting for starting berths, expect an entertaining encounter between two of British football’s most storied clubs.
