Manchester United XI vs Hull City – Predicted lineup and team news

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The Football Faithful

·22 August 2026

Manchester United XI vs Hull City – Predicted lineup and team news

Manchester United begin their Premier League campaign at Hull City on Saturday lunchtime, Michael Carrick’s first full season since taking permanent charge of the club.

United finished third last season and return to the Champions League for the first time in three years, adding a further layer of demand to Carrick’s first full campaign. A trip to newly promoted opposition offers the ideal opportunity to start with a statement.

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Matthijs de Ligt remains unavailable with a lower back complaint, and Manuel Ugarte is expected to miss much of the season through a knee injury. Tom Heaton is also sidelined. Mason Mount picked up a foot injury in the 1–1 draw with PSG in pre-season and faces a late fitness test to determine his involvement. Benjamin Seško has returned to full training after a shin problem but remains touch and go for a first involvement of the season.

Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos are both expected to make their competitive debuts in a rebuilt central midfield. Santos, a £50m signing from Chelsea, featured in all six of United’s pre-season friendlies and has shown he is ready for a starting role. Tielemans arrived later after helping Belgium reach the World Cup quarter-finals but completed 90 minutes in the final pre-season friendly against AC Milan.

Ayden Heaven is set to partner Harry Maguire in central defence, with Lisandro Martínez managing only around 30 minutes of pre-season football and considered a bench option alongside Kobbie Mainoo. Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw continue at full-back.

Bryan Mbeumo is expected to lead the line after an impressive pre-season, with Seško’s fitness situation opening the door. Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha provide width either side of captain Bruno Fernandes, who operates in his customary number ten role. Senne Lammens continues in goal.