Ahead of the last-16 Carabao Cup fixture against Leicester City, Manchester United's Altay Bayindir has shared a graphic on his Instagram story, hinting at a potential start. While not definitive, players have used this method in the past to inform fans and family back home when they are expected to feature in a game. Bayindir has yet to start against a team from the second tier or above, with former manager Ten Hag opting to rarely rotate in cup competitions. However, interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy could be breaking that trend by giving Bayindir the opportunity to impress on the big stage.
Ruud van Nistelrooy Breaks Trend, Gives Bayindir Big Stage Opportunity
Ahead of their Carabao Cup fixture against Leicester City, Manchester United have hinted at a potential start for goalkeeper Altay Bayindir. The 23-year-old Turk has yet to start against a team from the second tier or above for United, but interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy could be breaking that trend.
Bayindir's Hint on Social Media
Bayindir shared a graphic on his Instagram story that featured a message from a fan, asking if he would be starting in the match against Leicester. Bayindir responded with a cryptic "maybe", which could be a hint that he is in line for his debut against a Premier League side.
Van Nistelrooy's Rotation Policy
Former United manager Erik ten Hag rarely rotated his starting lineup in cup competitions, preferring to field his strongest team. However, interim manager van Nistelrooy has suggested that he could be willing to give more opportunities to players who have not featured regularly this season.
Bayindir's Opportunity
With David de Gea expected to rest for the match, Bayindir could be handed his chance to impress against a top-flight opponent. A strong performance from the Turk could put him in contention for a more prominent role in the future.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why is Bayindir's potential start significant?
It would be Bayindir's first start against a team from the second tier or above, and could indicate a shift in van Nistelrooy's rotation policy.
2. How has Bayindir performed for United this season?
Bayindir has played in two EFL Cup matches this season, keeping clean sheets in both.
3. What is van Nistelrooy's approach to cup competitions?
Van Nistelrooy has suggested that he may be willing to rotate his lineup more than his predecessor, Erik ten Hag.
4. What are Bayindir's chances of making a long-term impact at United?
A strong performance against Leicester could boost Bayindir's chances of becoming a regular in the United starting lineup.
5. Who is the current first-choice goalkeeper at United?
David de Gea is United's current first-choice goalkeeper.
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