Goalkeeper
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Altay Bayındır — United’s first-choice shot-stopper for 2025/26.
Defenders (4)
RB: Diogo Dalot — reliable, energetic going forward.
CB: Harry Maguire — big-game experience.
CB: Lisandro Martínez — defensive leader with elite positioning.
LB: Noussair Mazraoui — back from injury and likely to start.
Holding Midfield
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Manuel Ugarte — solid ball-winner and defensive shield.
Midfield Four
Right Mid: Bryan Mbeumo — United’s £71m attacking spark.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo (Academy) — Carrick trusts his ball retention and tactical awareness.
CM: Bruno Fernandes — creative engine and captain figure.
Left Mid: Mason Mount — creative and hardworking in both phases.
Striker
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Matheus Cunha — United’s main goal threat up front (signed 2025).
🔁 Four Big Changes Carrick Might Make
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Formation shift to 4-1-4-1 — more structure vs Arsenal’s midfield pressure.
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Start Kobbie Mainoo over a senior midfielder — reflects Carrick’s trust in youth and ball progression.
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Mazraoui returns in place of less experienced full-back for defensive balance.
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Mbeumo starts to add direct goal threat and work rate down the flank.
🧠 Tactical Breakdown
Defence: Maguire & Martínez offer physicality and aerial control, critical when United defend deep.
Midfield Shield: Ugarte breaks up play while Mainoo helps maintain possession under press.
Creativity & Link-Up: Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount provide chances and transitional passing.
Attack: Mbeumo and Cunha bring pace and unpredictability on the break.
📊 Why This Line-Up Works vs Arsenal
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Midfield balance with Mainoo & Ugarte helps blunt Arsenal’s press and recycle possession.
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Creative outlet from Bruno and Mount gives United cutting edge in transition.
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Directness in attack via Mbeumo & Cunha allows United to exploit Arsenal’s high line.
If Arsenal try to dominate possession, this setup gives United a strong spine and the ability to hit quickly on the counter — a sensible approach for such a fierce rivalry.
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