Manchester United are preparing for a difficult Premier League meeting with West Ham, and the spotlight is already on Erik ten Hag’s potential tactical adjustments. With multiple attacking players unavailable due to injuries and fitness concerns, United are expected to field a makeshift front three as they aim to regain momentum.

Ten Hag is no stranger to squad disruptions this season, and his forward line is once again under scrutiny. The absences have forced the coaching staff to explore alternative combinations, particularly in wide areas where natural wingers have been limited. As a result, United may turn to a fluid, versatility-driven attacking trio designed to stretch West Ham’s defensive shape.

Rasmus Højlund remains the most likely option to lead the line, offering physicality and pressing energy through the middle. With limited senior wide options available, Marcus Rashford could be pushed into a roaming left-side role, while Alejandro Garnacho is expected to occupy the opposite flank. The setup provides speed and directness, even if it lacks the full balance of Manchester United’s ideal attacking unit.

Behind the forwards, Bruno Fernandes will continue operating as the creative hub, tasked with linking midfield transitions and supplying the front three with early opportunities. Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo could form the double pivot, providing both defensive cover and composure in possession—two areas that will be crucial against West Ham’s quick counterattacking style.

Defensively, United may stick with a familiar back four of Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, and Luke Shaw, depending on late fitness checks. The focus will be on maintaining compactness against West Ham’s physical forwards while also providing clean outlets for United’s counterpressing actions.

West Ham are likely to pose significant threat—particularly through set pieces and transitional phases—but Ten Hag will hope that his reshuffled attacking structure can create enough unpredictability to disrupt the Hammers’ organization.

While not ideal, the makeshift front three offers United a platform built on pace, work rate, and quick combinations. And given the circumstances, it may be their most effective route to securing an important result.