Manchester United vs Bayern: Will Rooney Be Missed?

By Dominic Vieira

Manchester United need to beat the mighty Bayern Munich at Old Trafford tomorrow to pass to the semi-finals. Will their star player Wayne Rooney be missed?

Manchester United vs Bayern Munich (1-2 aggregate), 19:45 GMT, Old Trafford

Bayern Munich was clearly the stronger side when the two European giants met last week at the Allianz Arena. They were down 1-0 at the opening stages of the match and without the in-form Arjen Robben and Schweinsteiger; but managed to overcome the result and score two goals which they worked for and rightfully deserved. United’s 4-5-1 formation clearly didn’t function on the night and must consider changing it for tomorrow’s encounter. The question which has built up this clash of titans is whether Wayne Rooney will play or not.

The match at Old Trafford will be a completely different match. The home crowd will create a magnificent atmosphere and support their team from the start until the final whistle. Football lovers’ can expect a fast, offensive and free flowing game. The counter attack will be frequently used, both sides have fast players and master the art of the counter attack; this strategy could potentially decide the final result. Manchester United will be more comfortable on the ball and should be able to find their space and momentum; something they couldn’t achieve in Germany.

Bayern have the upper hand, they’re approaching this game with high confidence and with the belief that they can win at the legendary Old Trafford stadium. They must not play defensively minded. Defensive football will only punish a team that plays that style. It is going to be a close battle and both teams can win, a 50-50 chance for both sides.

I can see Alex Ferguson changing things for the match, it may be a risk, but could work and a surprise can be effective. United should change their usual European 4-5-1 which was inefficient last week to their typical 4-4-2. This means they will field Macheda and Berbatov up front, which would create a deadly partnership. Berbatov is not capable of playing alone up front and Macheda who is a clinical finisher, would be a perfect partner for the Bulgarian. Gary Neville played the first leg and was constantly tormented by Ribery, his fitness may not be at the required level for this physical battle. Rafaael should take his place, he does not have strong defensive attributes but his speed could be essential to block Ribery.

It is 99% certain that Rooney will not play, but some reports state that Rooney will be fit. This would be a terrible decision to make and United are capable of beating their opponents without the England international. He will join the injured Anderson, Michael Owen, Brown and Evans in the stands. Hargreaves is also ineligible for tonight. O'Shea has recovered from injury and is expected to sit on the bench.

Bayern Munich are blessed with the return of Arjen Robben, the team’s offensive driving force this season and if he plays, will certainly cause havoc. Van Buyten has managed to shake off a minor injury and will partner with Demichelis at the back. Bastian Schweinsteiger who missed the first leg due to suspension, he will be in the Bavarian starting XI. He is a key player in the German side and his presence will open width in the team. If Robben and Ribery can’t deliver, Schweinsteiger is the man to watch. Bayern Munich are fielding their strongest men and if they find themselves a goal down, they have options, Gomez and Klose are on the bench. United’s defence better be prepared!

Manchester United (4-4-2): Van der Sar; Rafael, Ferdinand ©, Vidic, Evra; Valencia, Fletcher, Carrick, Nani; Macheda, Berbatov

Bayern Munich (4-4-2): Butt; Lahm, Van Buyten, Demichelis, Badstuber; Robben, Schweinsteiger, Van Bommel ©, Ribery; Muller, Olic

Prediction: Manchester United 3 – 1 Bayern Munich, Manchester United will be deadly at home and despite the absence of Wayne Rooney, they are capable of creating numerous goalscoring opportunities. United will start the game aggressively and play with a high defence, aiming to score an early goal. But, don’t write Bayern off as they are equally as deadly as United. I can see United winning this one and luck may be on their side. This match is certainly an anticipated final and nobody should miss it!

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