Manchester United face their first Manchester derby of the season this weekend, and there is no shortage of talking points surrounding Michael Carrick’s side.
Benjamin Sesko’s emergence, Kobbie Mainoo’s midfield progress, the latest injury news and an Opta prediction have all featured prominently ahead of Sunday’s clash with Manchester City.
Here is a look at the main Manchester United news and talking points from today.
Carrick could keep Sesko for the derby
Michael Carrick could stick with much of the side that started against Sabah, with Benjamin Sesko expected to retain his place. Our predicted Manchester United lineup has Senne Lammens in goal, with Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw in defence.
Youri Tielemans and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to continue in midfield, while Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha could support Sesko in attack.
Sagna backs Leny Yoro
Former Manchester City defender Bacary Sagna has urged people not to judge Leny Yoro too harshly after his difficult start at Manchester United.
In our full Leny Yoro story, Sagna argued that the young defender joined a struggling side and that it is particularly difficult for defenders to perform when the entire team is struggling. He described Yoro as an “amazing player” and a top prospect.
Opta gives Manchester City the edge
The Opta supercomputer has Manchester City as the favourites for Sunday’s Manchester derby. Our full prediction shows City with a 45.1% chance of winning compared with 30.6% for United.
However, United have registered 68 shots and 7.3 expected goals across their opening three league games, while they have also won nine of their last 10 home Premier League matches since Carrick returned.
Carragher gives United reality check
Jamie Carragher believes United should keep their Champions League expectations realistic. In our full Carragher story, he argued that Carrick’s current squad does not yet have the quality to go deep into the competition.
Carragher believes getting through the league phase should be the first target, with reaching the quarter-finals representing a positive campaign.
Mainoo and Tielemans partnership develops
Carrick is increasingly pleased with the understanding developing between Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans. As explained in our full midfield story, the pair have played more minutes together than United’s other midfield combinations.
Carrick also praised Mason Mount for returning to the pitch and said Andrey Santos has settled in “fantastically well”, giving United several midfield options.
Injury update ahead of City
Our Manchester United injury report confirms that Carlos Baleba, Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt remain unavailable, while Manuel Ugarte continues his rehabilitation from knee surgery.
Baleba is still waiting for his debut after an ankle injury, while De Ligt has returned to training but is being managed carefully. Amad remains without a confirmed return date. Marcus Rashford has returned to the matchday squad and Mason Mount featured against Sabah.
Sesko gives Carrick a major decision
Sesko scored on his first start of the season against Sabah, following his goal as a substitute against Everton. Our full selection story highlights how the striker has now scored in consecutive appearances and has put himself firmly into Carrick’s thinking.
He was taken off after 64 minutes, potentially leaving him fresh for Sunday, while Matheus Cunha also scored against Sabah.
Carrick delighted with Sesko options
Carrick has praised what Sesko brings to United’s attack. In our full story, Carrick highlighted the striker’s physicality, ability to play on the last line and speed to run in behind.
With Sesko, Cunha, Mbeumo and Marcus Rashford all offering attacking options, Carrick admitted selecting his front three is “not an easy decision” but called it one he prefers to have.
Man Utd vs Man City viewing details
Sunday’s Manchester derby will take place at Old Trafford, with our full TV channel and live stream guide confirming a 4:30pm BST kick-off on September 13.
The game will be shown live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League, with streaming available through Sky Go and NOW.
Manchester United Predicted Lineup vs Man City: Carrick set to Keep Sesko
Manchester United Predicted Lineup vs Man City: Carrick set to Keep Sesko
‘Joined a sick team’, Former Manchester City defender gives Leny Yoro verdict
‘Joined a sick team’, Former Manchester City defender gives Leny Yoro verdict