🚨 Manchester United XI Confirmed vs Manchester City: Lammens Starts as Shaw Misses Derby
Manchester United have officially named their starting XI for the highly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester City, with Michael Carrick making several important decisions for the clash.
The biggest headline is in goal, where Senne Lammens gets the nod. The Belgian goalkeeper will have a huge responsibility in his first major Manchester derby, with City expected to put United under plenty of pressure.
In defence, Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez and Dorgu form the back four. Dorgu’s inclusion at left-back is particularly significant considering United’s ongoing problems in that position.
Unfortunately, Luke Shaw is out of the squad altogether due to injury, leaving Carrick without his most experienced natural senior left-back for the derby. That decision further highlights the concerns surrounding United’s lack of depth in the position.
🔴 Mainoo and Tielemans Trusted in Midfield
In midfield, Carrick has once again placed his trust in Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans.
Mainoo’s ability to carry the ball, retain possession and progress play could be extremely important against City’s midfield, while Tielemans will be expected to provide composure and creativity from deeper areas.
Ahead of them is the attacking trio of Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford.
Mbeumo’s pace and direct running could give City’s defence plenty to think about, while Bruno will once again be the creative heartbeat of the team. Rashford, meanwhile, will be looking to use his pace and attacking movement to exploit spaces behind the City defence.
🔥 Cunha Leads the Attack
Matheus Cunha completes the starting XI and will lead the Manchester United attack.
Cunha’s ability to drop deep, link up with teammates and create opportunities could be crucial against a City side that may attempt to dominate possession.
With Mbeumo, Bruno, Rashford and Cunha all starting together, United have plenty of attacking quality capable of hurting City on the counter.
🚨 Shaw Injury Is a Major Concern
The absence of Luke Shaw is undoubtedly one of the biggest talking points before kick-off.
United are already dealing with limited options at left-back, and Shaw’s latest injury means Carrick has once again had to rely on Dorgu in the position.
It is a situation that could become increasingly concerning as the season progresses, particularly with United competing across multiple competitions.
🔴 The XI
Lammens
Dalot – Maguire – Martínez – Dorgu
Mainoo – Tielemans
Mbeumo – Fernandes – Rashford
Cunha
The stage is now set.
Manchester is ready for another derby, and United will be hoping this XI has enough quality, intensity and character to deliver a huge result against their neighbours.
Come on United! 🔴🔥
What do you think of Michael Carrick’s starting XI for the Manchester derby?