Leicester City’s Predicted Line-Up vs. Man United as Van Nistelrooy Teases Tactical Alternative

Ruud van Nistelrooy may stick with the same Leicester City lineup that faced Chelsea, giving his players a chance to improve when Manchester United visit on Sunday.

Despite Leicester suffering a fifth consecutive league defeat without scoring, Van Nistelrooy was encouraged by his new 5-2-1-2 formation at Stamford Bridge.

After the match, he confirmed his intention to persist with the system but hinted at an alternative approach during Friday’s press conference.

Late in the Chelsea game, Van Nistelrooy reintroduced the inverted full-back setup used last season under Enzo Maresca.

This was possible due to Ricardo Pereira’s return from injury, allowing him to resume his pivotal role in the system.

“It was a tactical change based on the situation,” Van Nistelrooy explained.

“It’s a great option and something we can start with, depending on the opponent. Ricardo brings tactical flexibility with his qualities.

He can play as a wing-back in a five-man defense and is excellent at progressing the ball forward.”

For now, though, this approach remains a backup plan, with the five-at-the-back system likely to continue.

Van Nistelrooy has potential changes to consider. Ricardo could feature at wing-back, while Woyo Coulibaly is also pushing for involvement.

Harry Winks, who came on as a substitute against Chelsea, could replace Boubakary Soumare in midfield.

Additionally, Facundo Buonanotte offers an alternative to Patson Daka in attack.

However, an unchanged lineup seems the most probable outcome.

That would see Luke Thomas continue alongside Conor Coady and Wout Faes in central defense, with James Justin and Victor Kristiansen operating as wing-backs.