Man Utd predicted lineup vs Arsenal as Carrick weighs tactical calls
Manchester United head to north London this weekend with momentum restored and choice questions sharpened by final Sunday’s derby win. The two-0 victory over Manchester Metropolis was not only a assertion efficiency however one which has compelled Michael Carrick into real selections forward of a demanding Premier League journey to face Arsenal.
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Man Utd choice formed by derby impression
The choice to start out Patrick Dorgu and Amad Diallo forward of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha within the derby paid off handsomely, with Bryan Mbeumo main the road and stretching Metropolis’s again line. That success has not closed the door on adjustments, nonetheless. Carrick has brazenly acknowledged that completely different opponents demand completely different options, and Arsenal’s aerial energy is a transparent consideration.
One possibility underneath evaluation is reintroducing Sesko centrally and shifting Mbeumo extensive, a transfer designed to supply extra bodily presence towards a defence comfy defending crosses and set-pieces. Carrick confirmed on Friday that “sure video games can have completely different types”, a concise abstract of his pragmatic strategy since moving into the position.
The emphasis, although, stays on stability. United have been managed, disciplined and assertive final weekend, and there’s a robust argument for trusting the identical attacking unit to check Arsenal’s defensive construction on the Emirates.
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Midfield stability and management focus
In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo’s emergence continues to be one in every of United’s most encouraging developments this season. His efficiency alongside Casemiro towards Metropolis underlined his composure and tactical consciousness, qualities that may once more be required towards Arsenal’s energetic central unit.
Casemiro, whose departure on the finish of the season has now been confirmed, stays a key determine within the quick time period. His expertise, positional sense and management present a platform for Mainoo to play with freedom. Forward of them, captain Bruno Fernandes is ready to function because the No10, tasked with linking play and discovering house between Arsenal’s midfield and defence.
Carrick has spoken warmly concerning the squad’s mindset following the derby. He described the group as being “in a extremely good place”, highlighting each the emotional carry of final weekend’s outcome and the depth of coaching since. That sense of focus shall be important in what he has labelled “an actual problem”.
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Defensive choices and availability updates
On the again, Noussair Mazraoui is obtainable once more after coming back from the Africa Cup of Nations, however indications are that Diogo Dalot will retain his place at right-back. Carrick is reluctant to disrupt a defensive unit that regarded settled and resilient towards Metropolis.
Shea Lacey is again from suspension, providing an alternative choice in extensive areas, however accidents proceed to restrict choice. Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee stay sidelined and won’t function in north London.
Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez are anticipated to proceed at centre-back, with Luke Shaw at left-back. The precedence shall be coping with Arsenal’s motion in extensive areas whereas sustaining the compact form that served United so nicely final day out.
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Predicted Man Utd XI vs Arsenal
Barring late adjustments, Carrick is prone to identify a facet that blends confidence with warning. The expected lineup displays each latest efficiency 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 on the Emirates Stadium, residence of Arsenal, with kickoff scheduled for 4.30pm GMT on Sunday, January 25, 2026. For Manchester United, it represents one other check of progress underneath Carrick, and a chance to measure themselves towards one of many league’s most constant sides. The sport shall be proven dwell on Sky Sports activities.