Manchester United have issued their latest team news ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby against Manchester City, with Michael Carrick preparing his side for the 199th meeting between the two clubs at Old Trafford.
United head into the derby in confident mood after beating Sabah 4-0 in the Champions League on Thursday. Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes and Lisandro Martinez were all on the scoresheet as Carrick’s side secured a comfortable European victory.
The quick turnaround means attention has now switched to the Premier League and a Manchester City side visiting Old Trafford for the first derby of the 2026/27 campaign.
Carrick has provided fitness updates on his squad as United assess their options for the weekend fixture. The manager has also been able to take encouragement from the performances of several players during Thursday’s win, with United building momentum before facing their local rivals.
Kobbie Mainoo was among the players to impress against Sabah, while Sesko continued his encouraging start with another goal. Carrick has also praised the connections developing within his squad as the new-look United side continues to take shape.
Luke Shaw was absent from the Champions League victory, with Carrick explaining the decision before kick-off. His availability will therefore be one of the key points to watch when United’s starting XI is announced for the derby.
The match will also provide Carrick with an early test of United’s progress against one of their biggest domestic rivals. United have started the season with European football back on the schedule and will now look to carry Thursday’s momentum into the Premier League.
City arrive at Old Trafford under new manager Enzo Maresca, adding another layer of intrigue to the latest chapter of the Manchester rivalry.
With the 199th Manchester derby approaching, United will be hoping their strong Champions League performance can provide the platform for a statement Premier League result.
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