Man Utd predicted XI vs Man City: Rashford to start, three changes at the back

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Utd Report

·12 September 2026

Man Utd predicted XI vs Man City: Rashford to start, three changes at the back

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick is expected to make a series of changes to his starting lineup when his team hosts Manchester City on Sunday.

The Red Devils have only collected four points from the first three rounds of the season. After suffering a shocking opening-day defeat in Hull, they retaliated with a big win over Ipswich, before squandering a two-goal lead against Everton last weekend.

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Carrick’s men have at least started their Champions League campaign on the right foot, making short work of Sabah on Thursday.

However, the gaffer is unlikely to confirm the formation that beat the Azerbaijan champions on Thursday.

How will Man Utd line up against Man City?

(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

After dropping five points already, Man Utd risk falling further behind in the Premier League standings, so a positive result in the Derby will be required this weekend.

Therefore, it will be interesting to see who Carrick will choose for his first major showdown of the season.

Despite Leny Yoro’s fine midweek display, we fully expect Harry Maguire to regain his place at the back alongside Lisandro Martinez.

The English and the Argentine defender had a stellar performance against Erling Haaland in this fixture last season, ensuring Carrick’s reign began on a fabulous note.

Diogo Dalot is also expected to regain his starting berth from Noussair Mazraoui, while Luke Shaw will likely be fit enough to play after being rested on Thursday. The experienced left-back’s return would drop Patrick Dorgu to the bench.

Matheus Cunha to spearhead the charge against Man City

(Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

In the middle of the park, Kobbie Mainoo and Youri Tielemans remain Carrick’s main choices while awaiting Carlos Baleba’s return from injury, although some would argue that Andrey Santos’ physicality could come in handy against Elliot Anderson and Co.

However, there could be a change further up the pitch, as Benjamin Sesko might not be fit enough to start twice in three days.

If the Slovenian striker is rested, Matheus Cunha would be expected to lead the line, making room for Marcus Rashford on the left wing. The England international would thus join Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo in the supporting crew.