ไทย
English
中國人
Defying expectations, Michael Carrick continues as Manchester United manager ahead of Saturday's Premier League showdown with Chelsea—though a loss at Stamford Bridge could spell the end of his tenure.
The Red Devils travel to west London to face a Chelsea side equally struggling after back-to-back defeats—including a rare home setback against Tottenham Hotspur. The early optimism surrounding Xabi Alonso's reign has quickly faded, with many still unconvinced by the new boss.
Fixtures between these two clubs once shaped Premier League title races, but a far more underwhelming encounter awaits fans this weekend. Two embattled managers go head-to-head at Stamford Bridge, with Carrick especially in need of a positive result.
Here's a look at how Carrick might line United up against the Blues.
Man Utd Predicted Lineup vs. Chelsea
GK: Senne Lammens—The Belgian had a difficult outing last weekend, but a change in goal seems unlikely heading into this fixture.
RB: Diogo Dalot—Dalot's positioning in possession against Bournemouth hampered United's attacking play, making a shift back to his preferred right flank almost certain for the Portuguese full-back.
CB: Harry Maguire—Maguire, who wore the armband in Fernandes' absence against Bournemouth, will be relieved by João Pedro's unavailability on Saturday. Chelsea are a noticeably different proposition without the Brazilian in their ranks.
CB: Lisandro Martínez—The Argentine has been far from his best this season, but he could still make his presence felt with some assertive defending. He remains a more reliable option than the inexperienced Ayden Heaven.
LB: Noussair Mazraoui—Luke Shaw's injury is a notable blow, leaving Carrick with limited options at left-back. Mazraoui could feature from the start and tuck inside to form a back three in possession, allowing Dalot more freedom on the right.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo—Despite United's summer investment in midfield, Mainoo remains the most energetic option available to Carrick. A return from injury could see him slot straight back into the starting eleven.
Pick Your Man Utd XI!
CM: Carlos Baleba—A midfield pairing of Baleba and Mainoo looks to be the most promising and well-rounded combination on paper.
RW: Amad Diallo—Carrick may look to adopt a counter-attacking setup on Saturday, giving Amad a key role both defensively and in transition. The Ivorian may not dazzle, but he brings consistency and work rate.
AM: Bruno Fernandes—Justifiably left out last weekend following his post-Como comments, but United are a noticeably weaker side without their captain. Fernandes has reportedly resolved matters with his manager and is expected to reclaim his place against Chelsea.
LW: Matheus Cunha—With Marcus Rashford still sidelined through injury, Carrick is forced to turn to an out-of-sorts Cunha, who has much to prove.
ST: Bryan Mbeumo—The full details of Benjamin Šeško's shin injury emerged this week, prompting speculation about a potential move for Dominic Calvert-Lewin in January. In the meantime, Carrick will rely on Mbeumo to lead the attack.