Erik ten Hag has opted to pair Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez in central defence for ’s Premier League opener against Brighton on Sunday, according to reports.
Ten Hag’s era begins at Old Trafford this weekend with new signings Martinez, Christian Eriksen and Tyrell Malacia all available to feature.
Martinez is the most expensive out of the trio having arrived in a £56.7 million deal from but the Argentina international is capable of playing in multiple positons.
However, report that Ten Hag has opted to start Martinez alongside captain Maguire for the game against Brighton, while will be named as a substitute.
The report claims that Ten Hag has been working with the same starting XI in training this week, which included Martinez alongside Maguire.
When asked about the availability of Martinez and Eriksen for the game against Brighton, Ten Hag said on Friday: ‘We need competition in the squad, but also we are going into a long season with a lot of games.
‘We need a lot of good players. They are fit enough to start.’
Ten Hag also insists he is ready to select Cristiano Ronaldo with Anthony Martial ruled out of the game due to a hamstring injury.
‘I am really happy he is here,’ said Ten Hag.
‘We have a top striker. We stick to the plan.’
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