Fulham and Manchester United mirror 4-2-3-1 shapes at Craven Cottage

Both managers have opted for stability, deploying a 4-2-3-1 that relies on a double pivot to anchor the midfield. For Fulham, the setup requires Alex Iwobi to operate as the primary creative link, tasked with finding pockets of space between the lines. His ability to transition the ball into the final third will be tested against a United side that looks to maintain a compact shape through the middle.

Antonee Robinson remains a vital component of Fulham’s attacking width. His overlapping runs from the left-back position are designed to stretch the opposition and create space for the central attackers. On the opposite flank, the inclusion of Bryan Mbeumo provides a direct threat, with his movement expected to challenge the defensive discipline of United’s full-backs.

Both sides will look to threat from dead-ball situations, with Fulham’s tall centre-backs aiming to dominate aerial duels and United looking to harness Bruno Fernandes’ delivery from corners and free kicks. The double pivot in each team will be crucial in shielding the defence and recycling possession after defending a set piece, making the first and second balls a potential source of early chances.