Which lineup will Carrick use for his debut match at MU?

Michael Carrick will face a significant test in his debut for MU, as he welcomes Man City to Old Trafford on January 17.

Michael Carrick will officially make his debut as MU’s head coach in the upcoming match against Man City on January 17. He is very likely to deploy his favored 4-2-3-1 formation, and below is the optimal lineup choice.

Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens

Carrick has limited options for goalkeeper. Lammens is the most reliable choice and is almost certain to start in the next match.

Right-back: Diogo Dalot

Dalot is currently out of form, but MU lacks any other true right-back options. Therefore, he is very likely to continue starting against Man City.

Center-back: Harry Maguire

Maguire was brought on in the final minutes against Brighton in the FA Cup. The English defender is MU’s best aerial defender. In a game where MU must defend against Man City, he is the Red Devils’ best choice at the moment.

Center-back: Lisandro Martinez

Martinez is MU’s main ball distributor in defense. His ability to hold possession under pressure and deliver long passes is crucial for MU’s ability to escape pressing.

Left-back: Luke Shaw

With MU returning to the 4-2-3-1 formation, Shaw will return to his natural position as left fullback. He is likely to be given more freedom to advance than Dalot on the right.

Central Midfielder: Casemiro

Casemiro is currently MU’s only true defensive midfielder and will almost certainly continue to be trusted under Carrick. His tackling ability is very important for the upcoming match.

Central Midfielder: Manuel Ugarte

MU will likely play on the counterattack against Man City, so a combative and aggressive midfielder like Ugarte is a better choice than Kobbie Mainoo.

Right Forward: Bryan Mbeumo

Mbeumo isn’t fully fit yet after returning from AFCON, but MU has no better winger option. He will be the main spearhead for MU in counterattacks.

Attacking Midfielder: Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes is MU’s primary creative force. Carrick understands how dangerous Fernandes is as the team’s focal point, and this will be repeated in the next match.

Left Forward: Matheus Cunha

Cunha is likely to start on the left wing but will cut inside more often to free space for Luke Shaw to push forward. He will combine with Bruno Fernandes as MU’s two main creators just outside Man City’s box.

Striker: Benjamin Sesko

Sesko has scored 3 goals in the last 2 matches and is expected to start again. Besides scoring, his aerial ability and hold-up play are crucial for launching long counterattacking passes.