Manchester United meet Aston Villa in the Premier League, with the two teams locked together on points in the table.
It’s a huge clash at Old Trafford, as two evenly-matched sides aim to take another step closer to Champions League qualification. Ahead of their encounter, we’ve picked our Manchester United vs Aston Villa Combined XI.
Goalkeeper: Emi Martinez – Aston Villa
Senne Lammens has brought a much-needed cool head to Manchester United this season and is a player rich in potential, but Emi Martinez has been there and done it at the top level. The Argentine, at his best, is a massive presence for The Villans.
Right-back: Matty Cash – Aston Villa
Right-back has been something of a problem position for Manchester United, with Diogo Dalot’s limited attacking contributions often maligned. Matty Cash has three goals and two assists in the Premier League this season, earning him the nod here.
Centre-back: Ezri Konsa – Aston Villa
An almost ever-present for Aston Villa this season and a player who, outside Villa Park, perhaps remains under-appreciated. Konsa’s calming presence could play him into Thomas Tuchel’s team for this summer’s World Cup.
Ezri Konsa has the highest pass accuracy (94.9%) of any player in the Premier League this season. 🎯#AVFC pic.twitter.com/jRiAVfbEGi
— WhoScored (@WhoScored) February 21, 2026
Centre-back: Harry Maguire – Manchester United
Has been an important part of the club’s revival under Michael Carrick in the latest Remontada of Maguire’s career. Recent performances have led to suggestions that the 33-year-old will be handed a new deal in the summer.
“Harry’s been playing well, it is pretty obvious to say that,” Carrick said this week.
“Considering you’re looking not too long ago, he was out for a considerable period out injured, and he came straight back in when we arrived. There has been a bit of managing him through the weeks and getting him right back up to speed. He’s shown his experience, his composure, and knows what it takes.”
Left-back: Luke Shaw – Manchester United
Neither Lucas Digne nor Ian Maatsen have nailed down Aston Villa’s left-back role, while Luke Shaw has produced a series of steady showings since Michael Carrick’s arrival and a return to a back four.
He’ll hope to time his run of form perfectly for a place in England’s World Cup squad, having impressed in previous tournaments.
Midfield: Casemiro – Manchester United
With Aston Villa ravaged by injuries, a Manchester United-dominated midfield kicks off with Casemiro.
The decision to allow the veteran to move on in the summer is perhaps the right call, but he’s been excellent in recent weeks. Leading the side to Champions League qualification would be the perfect farewell.
Midfield: Kobbie Mainoo – Manchester United
Just what was Ruben Amorim thinking during his ostracisation of Kobbie Mainoo? Get your best players in the team and build around them. Michael Carrick is reaping the rewards of that decision.
Midfield: Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United
Bruno Fernandes has gone from dark horse to genuine contender for the PFA Player of the Year award. A lack of silverware will damage his hopes, but there have been few more influential. Fernandes has seven goals and 14 assists in the Premier League this season, the latter the best return of his career.
Bruno Fernandes has created 92 chances in the Premier League this season, at least 36 more than any other player.
Bruno Fernandes has created 22 big chances in the PL this season, at least seven more than any other player.
Bruno Fernandes has provided 14 assists in the PL… pic.twitter.com/vgWtsKh4a4
— Squawka (@Squawka) March 8, 2026
Right-wing: Bryan Mbeumo – Manchester United
A top, top signing for Manchester United. Bryan Mbeumo has hit the ground running this season, following a 20-goal season at Brentford with another impressive campaign. The Cameroonian’s added direct threat, tireless work-rate, and a penchant for big goals.
Left-wing: Morgan Rogers – Aston Villa
Morgan Rogers has come a long way since a six-month spell at Middlesbrough under Michael Carrick. Now, he’ll look to get one over his old manager, established as one of the Premier League’s best young talents.
He’s scored eight league goals and created five more, while he’s arguably ahead of Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden for a starting spot with England this summer.
Forward: Benjamin Sesko – Manchester United
The Slovenian has found his feet at Manchester United after a tough start, scoring six times in his last eight league games. The quality – and timing – of Sesko’s goals have underlined the 22-year-old’s vast potential.
6 – Since the departure of Ruben Amorim as Manchester United manager, Benjamin Šeško is the leading scorer in the Premier League with six goals, averaging a goal every 43 minutes. Marksman. pic.twitter.com/jhzZ9Kkt3R
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 2, 2026
Read – Noughties Nines: Nicolas Anelka – Sullen and spectacular
See more – Five of the best – Liverpool vs Tottenham goals
