Michael Carrick’s second game as interim manager of Manchester United is somehow a bigger challenge than the Manchester derby, with a trip to take on Arsenal.
There couldn’t have possibly been a tougher start to life at Manchester United for Michael Carrick than the two teams most likely to win the league.
But Carrick passed the derby test with flying colours, with United thrashing City in a 2-0 win that could have ended up being five or six.
After such a massive win, Carrick remained calm, reminding his players that they need to do it 16 more times, not to get carried away by one victory.
So, with victory sure to be the target against Arsenal, there is one particular change we think Carrick needs to make.
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Michael Carrick knows he needs to start Matheus Cunha
Carrick and Steve Holland will have been constructing a plan all week to do what no other side has this season: win at the Emirates.
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It won’t be easy, with Arsenal far better defensively than City, and Mikel Arteta could use a low-block to deny United the chance to hit his side on the break, so we think Matheus Cunha needs to start.
Michael Carrick celebrates with Matheus Cunha during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Manchester City at Old Trafford in 2026 in Manchester, England.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Cunha offers United more creativity and final third quality than Patrick Dorgu, which makes him a better pick in a game we expect could see United with more possession than last week.
After not starting Cunha against City, Carrick was very impressed by his cameo.
Cunha created Dorgu’s goal all on his own with a great run and cross, showing he can break down a defence from nothing.
Speaking to club media this weekend ahead of the game, Carrick heaped further compliments on Cunha.
“Matheus [Cunha] had a huge impact when he came on. The goal, obviously, but also the way he approached the match. I was delighted with his performance.”
Cunha might very well have played himself into starting against Arsenal, and it would be a wise decision with Dorgu’s pace from the bench a good option if United manage to take a lead.
Who should start against Arsenal at left-wing Matheus Cunha or Patrick Dorgu?
What would be your Manchester United team to face Arsenal?
UIF Predicted XI
UIF Predicted XI
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Potential Manchester United line-up to face Arsenal
It will be a tough game at the Emirates, but confidence is high right now at Manchester United, especially if Carrick gets everything spot on again as he did against City.
Senne Lammens is a no-brainer to start in goal, while the defence should hopefully see Noussair Mazraoui and Luke Shaw in their respective full-back positions.
Meanwhile, Harry Maguire’s height will be key to combat Arsenal’s set-piece threat, alongside Lisandro Martinez, who is deceptively good in the air.
Midfield should be unchanged, with Casemiro vital in set-pieces and in locking down the centre of the park alongside Kobbie Mainoo, who was excellent against City.
Finally, a front four of Amad, Bruno Fernandes, Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo up front should give the Red Devils the best chance of success.
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