Man Utd predicted XI vs Man City: Carrick has three dilemmas on his debut | OneFootball

New Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick is facing three selection headaches ahead of Saturday’s big Derby against Manchester City.

The 44-year-old has received the interim role until the end of the season following the sacking of Ruben Amorim last week and Darren Fletcher’s brief two-match spell.

Unfortunately for Carrick, his tenure will begin with a baptism of fire, as his men will host Pep Guadiola’s Cityzens on Saturday’s early Premier League kickoff.

Like Fletcher, the new Man Utd boss is expected to distance himself from Amorim’s much-maligned three-man backline and adopt a more traditional 4-2-3-1 formation. But who will be the first 11 names on Carrick’s United teamsheet?

Three Man Utd starting roles up for grabs

Needless to say, Senne Lammens will start between the posts, while Lisandro Martinez has already made a strong impression following his return from injury, swiftly retaining his automatic starting berth. Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot are the clear favourites for the full-back slots, but the identity of the fourth defender remains uncertain.

Despite his highs and lows, Ayden Heaven has recently outperformed Leny Yoro, but the Frenchman is a more natural fit for the right centre-back role, which could give him the nod in this razor-tight run-off.

(Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)

The second conundrum that Carrick is facing in the middle of the park. While the experienced Casemiro seems to be a lock in the No.6 role, the manager must decide whether to opt for a cautious approach by fielding another holding midfielder in Manuel Ugarte, or go for a more progressive option in Kobbie Mainoo.

The Englishman could be slightly ahead thanks to his characteristics. He also has fond memories of Man City, dating back to his heroics in the 2024 FA Cup final.

The big one: Amad Diallo vs Bryan Mbeumo

The attacking department might represent the biggest headache for the new head coach. Bruno Fernandes should start in the No.10 role, with Matheus Cunha to his left, and Benjamin Sesko leading the line. However, it remains to be seen who will take the right wing.

ِAmad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will both be called up for the Derby following their return from Africa. But while they both had an automatic berth in Amorim’s system, the two friends might find themselves vying for one spot.

Despite his exploits in AFCON, the Ivorian might have to settle for a place on the bench, as the Cameroonian has been crucial for United’s attack since the start of the season.

Man Utd Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Yoro (Heaven), Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo (Ugarte); Mbeumo (Amad), Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.