Manchester United head to League Two Grimsby Town in the second round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, looking for their first win of the season.
Manchester United have had a poor start to their Premier League season. After a summer of big spending, Ruben Amorim’s side have just one point from their opening two Premier League games.
Manchester United’s summer spending
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Bruno Fernandes missed a penalty in the first half of their clash with Fulham at the weekend, which ultimately cost them three points. It was an own-goal which opened the scoring for Manchester United, meaning one of Amorim’s players is yet to score so far this term.
The Carabao Cup represents a fresh challenge and an opportunity to change up the squad. Players like Kobbie Mainoo could get game time after his growing frustration over the lack of minutes.
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Grimsby Town will be relishing this opportunity against one of the biggest sides in the country. The Mariners have started their League Two season very well.
manchester united, ‘A bit of a scare’ – Grimsby Town vs Manchester United Carabao Cup prediction: The72
Image courtesy of: EDS SYKES/REUTERS.
David Artell’s side are unbeaten in their first five games of the year. They have three wins to their name already this year, including a 1-0 win over last season’s play-off finalists Walsall.
Grimsby Town beat Shrewsbury Town 3-1 in the opening round of the competition. At Blundell Park, which is close to a sell-out, they will hope a huge upset is on the cards.
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Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
Charlie Hodgson
“I think the vast majority of football fans want an upset in this one. Manchester United will be desperate for a win and obviously should have the quality to do so.
“For Grimsby Town though this is such a good opportunity. The blueprint to beat Amorim’s side can be seen every week, and if they can use the crown at Blundell Park to rattle them, they could give themselves a massive chance.
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Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim reacts
Image courtesy of: DYLAN MARTINEZ/REUTERS.
“However, I do think Manchester United will win this game. It will be by no means a walk in the park for them, but ultimately they should have too much ability to lose this tie.”
Prediction: Grimsby Town 0-2 Manchester United
James Ray
“We’ve seen these clashes countless times over the years. Grimsby Town will come into the game fearless knowing they have nothing to lose given the worlds between these two.
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“The Mariners could give the visitors a bit of a scare though. Manchester United keep struggling to find any sort of cohesion regardless of how much they spend, and against a well-drilled and confident Dave Artell side, I actually think the hosts will get on the score sheet.
“As often is with these games though, the vast difference in standards will shine through. I’ll say that the Red Devils get the job done, but it might not be particularly convincing or pretty.”
Prediction: Grimsby Town 1-3 Manchester United
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