Man Utd need to beat Roma in the Champions League after a nine-match winless streak.
Chelsea FC v Manchester United - Premier League 2026/27
Lisandro Martinez was sent off in Man Utd's defeat at Chelsea last time out (Image: Getty)
Manchester United are on a disastrous run of form after going nine games without a win. The Red Devils are desperate to end that disastrous run when they host Roma at Old Trafford in the Champions League tonight. United's last European outing was one of the most chastening nights in their entire history, with a 4-1 defeat at Como. Michael Carrick's men only have three points from three games so far. They also lost away at Atletico Madrid last month.
But their other win in the Champions League also came at Old Trafford against minnows Sabah FK. The last time Roma visited United's home ground, they were subjected to a 6-2 hiding, having also been beaten 7-1 there in 2007.
Carrick and co. would desperately love such a heavy victory again, but in truth, they will take any manner of victory given their recent results.
Charlie Malam
There’s an argument to say because Lisandro Martinez can’t play at the weekend, he should play here. But maybe Michael Carrick has to make an example of the Argentine.
That’s what I’d do, I think Martinez should drop to the bench even in this one. Matthijs de Ligt had a stinker in Como but he’s drafted back in for this one, and I’d partner him with Leny Yoro to deal with Donyell Malen.
Roma are absolutely flying and scoring goals for fun this season. Perhaps United need to bring Noussair Mazraoui back into the side here, at left-back, with Diogo Dalot at right-back.
It’s hardly a world-class full-back pairing but it’s better than putting Yoro or Ayden Heaven there. In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo returns to the XI next to Carlos Baleba.
The front four stays as it was at Chelsea. It could have been a different game at Stamford Bridge had the United attack taken some of their chances. They have to be more clinical here.
Jack McEachen
Senior heads must prevail in these turbulent times, but that is no excuse for Lisandro Martinez to keep his spot in the team.
He may not be suspended for the Champions League, but he does not deserve a spot after his recent performances.
Get a few senior players in the back four and Kobbie Mainoo’s return cannot come soon enough.
Unfortunately, Michael Carrick does not have the luxury of easing him back into the team, which desperately needs one of its few positive performers this season.
Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha just about keep their place due to a dearth of options waiting in the wings, but I would like to see Joshua Zirkzee brought in.
He has enjoyed a couple of fine cameo appearances and United would benefit from a focal point at the top of the pitch. Benjamin Sesko could be out until the new year, so if there is ever to hand the Dutchman an opportunity, it is now.
Amos Murphy
Manchester United’s last win came at home in the Champions League, but that was against Sabah, not high-flying Roma. The Italian side are free-scoring and very potent.
Lisandro Martinez’s red card at the weekend was harsh to say the least, so he shouldn’t be punished too severely. It means he’ll join Harry Maguire again at the back, with a sturdy full-back partnership of Diogo Dalot and Leny Yoro either side.
Como 1907 v Manchester United - UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD3
Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo should both start for Man Utd (Image: Getty)
Kobbie Mainoo and Carlos Baleba at the heart of midfield should provide a sturdy base for Bruno Fernandes to do his thing just in front.
United really need to start scoring goals, and that task looks like it will be given to Amad, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Tom Victor
Given Roma’s strength going forward, it might be time for United to prioritise defensive solidity at the back.
Lisandro Martinez ought to do a little less damage if shunted out left, while bringing Leny Yoro in on the right would reduce the risk of a full-back being caught far upfield.
Michael Carrick may decide he can’t trust Martinez after his red at Stamford Bridge but the lack of other options might leave him with little choice.
Kobbie Mainoo was fit enough for a cameo on Saturday so I’d give him a start this time, with Andrey Santos dropping out and Youri Tielemans continuing to wait his turn.
Further forward, the front four looked to be doing reasonably well against Chelsea while it remained 11 vs 11 so there ought not be any need to switch that up.
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