Manchester United will be aiming to return to winning ways when they host Sabah in their Champions League curtain-raiser on Thursday night.
The Red Devils have had a mixed start to the Premier League campaign with one win, one draw and a defeat in their opening three matches.
They were on course for a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Everton on Sunday, but Ainsley Maitland-Niles stunned everyone with a sensational long-range equaliser in the 95th minute.
United now need to refocus ahead of their first Champions League game since December 2023.
They host Sabah on the first matchday of the league phase. With a short turnaround of less than 72 hours before the league derby against Manchester City at home, we expect some rotation.
In our view, Carrick could make at least three changes to the starting XI.
Diogo Dalot could be the first player to make way. The Portuguese right-back had a sloppy start against the Toffees and could have received an early booking. He also made an error leading to a shot and was dribbled past twice.
The 27-year-old won just 30 percent of his duels (3/10), and it won’t come as a surprise if he is dropped to the bench. Noussair Mazraoui and Leny Yoro are options for the manager, but the former could start as he is the specialist.
Youri Tielemans has been a relatively good midfield partner for Kobbie Mainoo, but he has not necessarily impressed in a forward capacity. His limited ball progression leaves room for a change against Sabah in midweek.
Andrey Santos has not started for United since the 2-0 loss at Hull City in the season opener. The £48 million signing could get another opportunity in place of Tielemans. Carlos Baleba is still recovering from an ankle injury after his move from Brighton & Hove Albion last month.
The other change could be in the final third, with Benjamin Sesko getting his first start of the campaign. The Slovenian netted a fabulous headed goal against the Toffees, and he looks back to his best after a nagging shin issue.
With Marcus Rashford doubtful with an injury, Carrick should unleash Sesko as the main striker, with Matheus Cunha dropping to the left wing. If Rashford is deemed fit, we would still prefer a specialist number nine in Sesko to lead the line ahead of Cunha on Thursday.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com