Michael Carrick's tenure as Manchester United manager begins with the ultimate test this afternoon, as his side host rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford in a pivotal Premier League clash. The derby, kicking off at 12:30pm on Saturday 17 January 2026, marks the start of a new chapter for the Red Devils, with Carrick aiming to secure European qualification over the final 17 games of the season.
Team News and Squad Updates
United have received a significant double boost ahead of the match, with Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo returning to training. The pair are back from Africa Cup of Nations duty after Ivory Coast and Cameroon were eliminated at the quarter-final stage last Wednesday. Their availability provides Carrick with fresh attacking options.
In further positive news, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Harry Maguire have all recovered from injuries in recent weeks. The only confirmed absentee is defender Matthijs de Ligt. The Netherlands international has been sidelined since late November with a back issue, and the club has not provided a substantive update on his condition since early December, leaving his return date uncertain.
For Manchester City, defensive injuries are a mounting concern. Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol have joined John Stones on the treatment table. This leaves Pep Guardiola with limited choices, likely relying on Nathan Ake, Abdukodir Khusanov, and the recalled Max Alleyne in defence. The club hopes to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, but that will be no help for this weekend's fixture.
Tactical Shifts and Predicted Lineups
Carrick is expected to move away from the 3-4-3 formation used under previous management, instead deploying a 4-2-3-1 system he favoured during his time at Middlesbrough. This tactical shift could allow Bruno Fernandes to operate in a more advanced role, having often played deeper this season.
In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo may earn his first Premier League start of the campaign alongside Casemiro, though Manuel Ugarte is another option. The return of Amad and Mbeumo presents a selection dilemma on the right flank, with Carrick possibly shifting one to the left side, where Matheus Cunha's form has been underwhelming.
For City, Antoine Semenyo is likely to retain his place after a bright start to his City career, facing a United side that tried to sign him last summer. Rayan Ait-Nouri is also available again after his return from AFCON.
Metro's Predicted Starting XIs
Manchester United predicted XI: With de Ligt out, Harry Maguire could partner Lisandro Martinez in central defence to combat Erling Haaland. Benjamin Sesko, with three goals in his last two games, will lead the line, hoping to silence his critics.
Manchester City predicted XI: Nathan Ake, who started at left-back against Newcastle, may move inside to partner Khusanov in central defence due to the injury crisis.
The match comes at a critical juncture for both clubs. City have drawn their last three league games, losing ground on leaders Arsenal. For United and Michael Carrick, a positive result against their fierce rivals would be the perfect launchpad for this new era at Old Trafford.
