Ruben Amorim names Manchester United squad for Everton showdown
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has announced his starting XI for the Premier League clash against Everton on 24 November, signaling an important step in rebuilding momentum after a demanding period. The lineup features a blend of experience and youth, with Lisandro Martinez returning to the squad for the first time since early February and a debut at senior level for a promising academy talent.
Martinez returns as injuries ease and squad depth grows
Lisandro Martinez is back in the fold, providing United with a familiar voice in the heart of defense. The Argentina international’s return is timely, offering leadership and quality at the back as Amorim looks to tighten his side’s resilience ahead of a challenging run of fixtures. Martinez’s presence is expected to bolster United’s structure and composure, especially against a determined Everton attack.
Alongside Martinez, the squad selection underscores United’s intent to balance defensive stability with attacking threat. The manager has indicated that the backline will be able to operate with confidence, knowing they have a reliable option to call upon should the game require it.
Youth earns a first senior call as Lacey receives recognition
Another notable inclusion is the elevation of a promising academy talent, Shea Lacey, who is named on the bench for the first time at senior level. Lacey’s call-up marks a significant milestone in his development, highlighting United’s commitment to integrating emerging talents into first-team scenarios. While the youngster remains in reserve, his presence among the senior squad provides a glimpse of the pathway the club is fostering for homegrown players.
Zirkzee leads the line with Cunha sidelined
With Matheus Cunha unavailable for selection, Joshua Zirkzee looks set to spearhead United’s attack. The Dutch forward’s role as the primary striker will be crucial in providing the cutting edge needed to convert chances into goals. Amorim’s decision to trust Zirkzee to lead the line reflects both the player’s recent form and the versatility within United’s attacking options.
Beside Zirkzee, United will rely on a blend of creative playmaking and pace to trouble Everton’s defense. The setup aims to exploit space and create chances through quick combinations, while ensuring there is enough cover to counter the visitors’ counters. This approach suits the current squad profile, which seeks balance between solid defending and an effective forward line.
<h2 What this means for United going forward
The selection signals a measured, long-term plan from Amorim that prioritizes squad depth and the development of younger players, while still fielding a team capable of competing for three points. Martinez’s return provides a tangible upgrade in reliability at the back, while Lacey’s ascent offers hope for the academy’s continued impact on the senior squad. For Zirkzee, the responsibility of leading the line will be a test of his finishing ability and his capacity to hold up play in a way that supports his teammates around him.
As United prepare to host Everton, the tactical approach will likely hinge on structure, pressing intensity, and a willingness to press high when in possession. Fans will be watching to see how Amorim integrates returning veterans with rising stars, and whether Zirkzee can step into a more central role with confidence and effectiveness.
