Man United Starting XI vs Chelsea: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup

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Lisandro Martinez’s situation only intensifies the crisis. Sent off against Leeds for an incident involving Dominic Calvert Lewin, his three match suspension rules him out of key fixtures. Carrick’s frustration was clear, describing the decision as “one of the worst I’ve seen”. United’s appeal failed, leaving them without one of their most combative defenders.

Matthijs de Ligt continues to be sidelined with a long standing back injury, meaning United head into this match with just one recognised senior centre back, 19 year old Ayden Heaven. It is a scenario that underlines the scale of the challenge facing Carrick.

Carrick Faces Tactical Puzzle

With options limited, Carrick must lean on adaptability. Manuel Ugarte has already been deployed as a makeshift centre back and could be asked to reprise that role. Luke Shaw presents another emergency solution, while Noussair Mazraoui’s versatility offers an alternative, having previously operated in a back three.

Carrick has shifted away from Ruben Amorim’s preferred system to a four man defence since taking charge in January, a decision now tested under extreme circumstances. The balance between defensive stability and attacking ambition will be delicate, particularly against a Chelsea side capable of exploiting uncertainty at the back.

Midfield and Attack Offer Hope

Further forward, United retain quality and creativity. Bruno Fernandes, Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha are expected to start, tasked with carrying the attacking burden. Bryan Mbeumo may lead the line, offering movement and energy in place of Benjamin Sesko.

There remains cautious optimism over Kobbie Mainoo’s availability, though Carrick struck a measured tone, stating, “Kobbie is doing little bits, he’s working toward it, he’s doing bits, so there’s a decision to be made.”

Patrick Dorgu will not feature, with Carrick confirming, “Patrick won’t be [available]. He’s doing well, rehabbing well and he’s kind of on track, but he’s not with us in terms of training. He’s back on the pitch, which is positive and he’s doing really well.”

Predicted Manchester United XI vs Chelsea

United are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 system, with Lammens in goal, Dalot, Shaw, Heaven and Mazraoui forming a patched together defence. Casemiro and Ugarte will anchor midfield, while Amad, Fernandes and Cunha support Mbeumo in attack.

As Manchester United face Chelsea, the narrative is shaped as much by who is missing as who is available. For Carrick, this is a moment that demands ingenuity, discipline and belief against a formidable opponent.