Manchester United Starting XI vs Arsenal: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Man Utd predicted lineup vs Arsenal as Carrick weighs tactical calls

Manchester United head to north London this weekend with momentum restored and selection questions sharpened by last Sunday’s derby win. The 2-0 victory over Manchester City was not just a statement performance but one that has forced Michael Carrick into genuine decisions ahead of a demanding Premier League trip to face Arsenal.

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Man Utd selection shaped by derby impact

The decision to start Patrick Dorgu and Amad Diallo ahead of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha in the derby paid off handsomely, with Bryan Mbeumo leading the line and stretching City’s back line. That success has not closed the door on changes, however. Carrick has openly acknowledged that different opponents demand different solutions, and Arsenal’s aerial power is a clear consideration.

One option under review is reintroducing Sesko centrally and shifting Mbeumo wide, a move designed to provide more physical presence against a defence comfortable defending crosses and set-pieces. Carrick confirmed on Friday that “certain games will have different styles”, a concise summary of his pragmatic approach since stepping into the role.

The emphasis, though, remains on stability. United were controlled, disciplined and assertive last weekend, and there is a strong argument for trusting the same attacking unit to test Arsenal’s defensive structure at the Emirates.

Midfield balance and leadership focus

In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence continues to be one of United’s most encouraging developments this season. His performance alongside Casemiro against City underlined his composure and tactical awareness, qualities that will again be required against Arsenal’s energetic central unit.

Casemiro, whose departure at the end of the season has now been confirmed, remains a key figure in the short term. His experience, positional sense and leadership provide a platform for Mainoo to play with freedom. Ahead of them, captain Bruno Fernandes is set to operate as the No10, tasked with linking play and finding space between Arsenal’s midfield and defence.

Carrick has spoken warmly about the squad’s mindset following the derby. He described the group as being “in a really good place”, highlighting both the emotional lift of last weekend’s result and the intensity of training since. That sense of focus will be vital in what he has labelled “a real challenge”.

Defensive options and availability updates

At the back, Noussair Mazraoui is available again after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, but indications are that Diogo Dalot will retain his place at right-back. Carrick is reluctant to disrupt a defensive unit that looked settled and resilient against City.

Shea Lacey is back from suspension, offering another option in wide areas, but injuries continue to limit selection. Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee remain sidelined and will not feature in north London.

Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez are expected to continue at centre-back, with Luke Shaw at left-back. The priority will be dealing with Arsenal’s movement in wide areas while maintaining the compact shape that served United so well last time out.

Predicted Man Utd XI vs Arsenal

Barring late changes, Carrick is likely to name a side that blends confidence with caution. The predicted lineup reflects both recent performance and tactical planning for the opposition.

Predicted Man Utd XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo.

Injured: De Ligt, Zirkzee.

The match takes place at the Emirates Stadium, home of Arsenal, with kickoff scheduled for 4.30pm GMT on Sunday, January 25, 2026. For Manchester United, it represents another test of progress under Carrick, and an opportunity to measure themselves against one of the league’s most consistent sides. The game will be shown live on Sky Sports.