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The World Cup playoff finals take place this week, and there are Manchester United connections in all six.
Let’s explore…
DR Congo vs Jamaica
Former Manchester United defenders Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka will be representing the DR Congo, aiming to reach the World Cup for the first time in their careers.
DR Congo knocked out Bryan Mbeumo and Andre Onana’s Cameroon, and then Nigeria to reach the playoffs.
Tuanzebe is now at Burnley, and Wan-Bissaka at West Ham.
Former United assistant Steve McClaren resigned as Jamaica boss in November, replaced by Rudolph Speid.
Photo by AMA/Corbis via Getty ImagesIraq vs Bolivia
Former Manchester United assistant Rene Meulensteen is the Iraq manager, looking to lead the side to a surprise World Cup appearance.
One of the players in his squad is former United midfield prospect Zidane Iqbal. The Utrecht midfielder has 22 international caps.
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Italy
We may be looking at a future connection with this game, concerning Manchester United transfer target Sandro Tonali.
Tonali scored in Italy’s semi-final win, and the result of this game could have a bearing on United’s midfield pursuit in the summer.
Whether Tonali is at the World Cup or not could influence the timing of a possible transfer deal, and his potential cost, if he has a particularly strong tournament.
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Photo by Jamie Sabau – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images Czech Republic vs Denmark
There is a more direct connection with this game, as Manchester United loanee Rasmus Hojlund will be involved as a likely starter.
Former player Christian Eriksen will likely feature for Denmark too. Current United star Patrick Dorgu is out with injury, but will be a key player at the World Cup if they can qualify.
In the Czech Republic goal, former Manchester United youngster Matej Kovar will attempt to spoil Denmark’s plans and frustrate Hojlund.
Kosovo vs Turkey
Manchester United back-up goalkeeper Altay Bayindir will be on the Turkey bench for their playoff, with Ugurcan Cakir set to start.
Bayindir is expected to leave United in the summer, and Turkey’s qualification could influence whether this is an early or a late deal.
Photo by Michael Campanella/Getty ImagesSweden vs Poland
Former Manchester United players Anthony Elanga and Victor Lindelof are aiming to secure a spot at the World Cup.
For current Aston Villa defender Lindelof, this is likely to be his last tournament, if Sweden are able to win this game.
Sweden have a surprise second chance after earning a playoff spot from their UEFA Nations League appearances, after failing to win a single qualifier, before their semi-final victory over Ukraine.
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