Erik ten Hag to start Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez for Manchester United instead of Raphael Varane

Raphael Varane is supposedly set to remain on the bench for Manchester United vs Brighton & Hove Albion, according to AS journalist Guillermo Rai (h/t Express). Instead, Erik ten Hag is set to start Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez in the backline.

The Argentine was the third signing of the summer for us. He’s featured in the behind-closed-doors game against Wrexham AFC and our final friendly at Old Trafford against Rayo Vallecano.

Martinez spent three seasons in Amsterdam under Ten Hag. The Argentine was a key member of the Dutch manager’s successful Ajax side. Now, the 24-year-old has reunited with his gaffer.

Varane signed for United last summer. The World Cup winner was unveiled with huge expectations in front of the Old Trafford crowd. But the Frenchman hasn’t lived up to the hype, spending a considerable time on the sidelines throughout the previous campaign.

United were shaky in defence last season

The Red Devils didn’t have the best of defensive records last season. We conceded 57 goals in our Premier League campaign. United also ended the season with a goal difference of zero.

Maguire didn’t have the best of campaigns either. Our captain looked short of confidence. In addition, the former Leicester City defender made a few high-profile errors that fans didn’t take to too kindly.

The Manchester-based club have been proactive in bolstering the backline this transfer window. Along with Martinez, Tyrell Malacia was signed from Feyenoord. The left-back is considered a talented prospect.

The former Ajax defender is a versatile addition to the side. Ten Hag deployed the Argentine at left-back as well as the number six position. Fans who’ve seen him play also praise his ability on the ball as well as aggressiveness.

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Going into next season, supporters will hope the defence isn’t as leaky. It’ll be interesting to see who Ten Hag starts on 7 August and continues to trust during the duration of the upcoming campaign.