Preview
In the inaugural curtain raiser for the new Premier League season, league champions Manchester United and FA Cup winners Wigan Athletic face-off at Wembley on Sunday, 11 August.
In Sir Alex Ferguson's last season at the club, United stormed into the league title. Wigan, under Roberto Martinez, were relegated from the Premier League but managed to upset Manchester City in the final of the FA Cup to book their place in this fixture. Both teams are under new management for the game with Manchester United now under David Moyes and Wigan, who lost Roberto Martinez to Moyes' former club Everton, have turned to former Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle.
Manchester United
Given that they are playing a championship side, Manchester United enter the game as heavy favourites. Despite knowing his team is expected to win, Moyes talked up Wigan's chances before the game.
"Wigan have earned the right to be here," Moyes is quoted in the Daily Mail. "I expect it will be something of a new Wigan, but we'll give them all the respect they deserve. This is a side that's already been to Wembley and won twice, not just in the FA Cup final but the semi-final, too. We won't take anything for granted."
Wayne Rooney, who has been included in the England squad for the mid-week friendly against Scotland, will not be involved for United after a supposed shoulder injury. Nemanja Vidic, Rafael, Patrice Evra and Robin van Persie, who did not feature in United's last pre-season match against Sevilla on Firday, are all expected to start.
Wigan Athletic
Wigan, in response for life outside of the Premier League, have been forced to make several changes in playing staff. Arouna Kone and Antolin Alcaraz have followed Roberto Martinez to Everton. The club have also lost Maynor Figueroa to Hull City and willingly released Franco Di Santo from his contract.
The club have however made several purchases in the off-season. James Perch arrived from Newcastle United as did Grant Holt from Norwich, James McClean from Sunderland and former Liverpool goalkeeper Scott Carson. All of the above players are expected to play some minutes in today's game.
Club captain Gary Caldwell is out with a hip injury. Ivan Ramis and Thomas Rogne are also unavailable due to injuries.
Where to Watch
Kick-off is at 6:30 pm IST (Sunday, August 11) and live coverage will be available on Star Sports.
