A look at how Manchester United could get more out of the current squad with new options.
Michael Carrick has had a lot of time to plan in recent weeks due to the long gaps between matches. And this could give him time to contemplate all of his options.
There are three exciting partnerships that Manchester United fans are yet to see – although one is particularly difficult to make happen. Here’s our breakdown…
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez celebrates at Old Trafford.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Currently impossible: Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt
Lisandro Martinez, 28, and Matthijs de Ligt, 26, should be a defensive partnership at the peak of their powers.
In theory, they are United’s best duo. Alternatives are either too young or too old. But neither Martinez or De Ligt are currently fit.
Martinez missed the first few months of the season, and the game in which he made his late return as a substitute against Palace away, proved to be De Ligt’s final match.
The pair should be a formidable duo. Both players are combative, strong in the air, and good with the ball at their feet. They each have grounding from their early career experience at Ajax, and both players are leaders.
Now in mid-March with only nine games left, there is a chance Martinez and De Ligt do not get a chance to play together this season. And in summer 2026, all options are open – from selling one or both, to signing a new defender.
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De Ligt / Martinez
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Possible and could happen: Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro
Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro could be Manchester United’s future. Both players are developing, with Yoro 20 and Heaven 19.
At the moment it looks like a case of either/or that one of them will line up with Harry Maguire. His experience is helpful. But eventually United want to see them both together.
Both players are injury-free and available, and while this is not a partnership that United need to rush, the only way for them to build a chemistry and understanding is to get out on the pitch together.
Michael Carrick might need to be bold and show that he can develop the pair together now. This could even count in his favour with Ineos.
Credit where it’s due, Joshua Zirkzee played well when he came on
Should Zirkzee be in line for a start any time soon?
Joshua Zirkzee reacts after his shot is saved by Aaron Ramsdale during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester United at St James’ Park in 2026 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.
Photo by George Wood/Getty Images
Possible, less likely: Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Joshua Zirkze
There is an attacking trio which has been available to Michael Carrick since he was appointed, that he is yet to use.
This involves starting Joshua Zirkzee up front, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha either side of him as a front three.
Together this trio could have some success if they were able to get a run of games together. Zirkzee could be a perfect link man to integrate Mbeumo and Cunha into the attack.
His role could be modelled on the role Roberto Firmino played for Liverpool. He was not required to be a prolific scorer, because he was able to maximise Salah and Mane’s contribution so well.
Zirkzee is capable of doing something similar for United, but the problem is that he is unlikely to get this opportunity this season.
Benjamin Sesko and Amad have more compelling cases to be utilised in United’s attack, while Patrick Dorgu and Shea Lacey will also bulk out the options.
Zirkzee will do well to get one start in the remaining nine games, let alone multiple.
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