ATM VS MNU: Man Utd’s Best Possible Starting Line-up Against Atletico Madrid

According to a report by Manchesterevening News on Tuesday October 13, 2026, Michael Carrick faces mounting pressure as Manchester United prepare to visit Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, with the manager desperate to secure a victory after recent disappointing results.

United have struggled since winning their opening Champions League fixture and were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend. Carrick is therefore expected to make changes.

Senne Lammens is likely to retain his place in goal despite concerns about his distribution. The goalkeeper remains United’s first choice, but he must improve his passing against Atletico’s dangerous attackers.

Leny Yoro could continue at right-back after Carrick surprisingly selected him ahead of Diogo Dalot against Tottenham. The manager’s tactical approach reportedly influenced that decision, potentially encouraging him to maintain the arrangement in Spain.

Dalot could nevertheless return to the starting eleven, replacing Luke Shaw at left-back as Carrick considers adjustments to his defensive setup for the important European encounter.

In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo remains unavailable, leaving Mason Mount and Andrey Santos competing for a starting position. Santos is considered the slight favourite after the options were assessed.

Youri Tielemans struggled during Saturday’s draw, while Carlos Baleba is pushing for an opportunity to make his full debut. His inclusion could provide United with additional energy and physical presence in midfield.

Bruno Fernandes is also expected to start despite struggling to reproduce the outstanding performance he delivered against Ipswich Town. Carrick is unlikely to drop his captain for such an important fixture.

Amad should retain his position on the right wing after completing his first appearance of the season without suffering any injury problems. Benjamin Sesko, however, remains unavailable for selection.

Marcus Rashford could return to the starting lineup on the left after losing his place to Matheus Cunha. Rashford made a brief appearance against Tottenham and will hope to earn another opportunity.

Cunha was relatively quiet against Spurs, although he helped create Bryan Mbeumo’s goal. Despite that contribution, the Brazilian could begin the Atletico match among the substitutes against his former club.

Mbeumo is expected to lead the attack again because of Sesko’s absence. The forward scored twice against Atletico during pre-season, but this Champions League meeting presents a considerably tougher challenge.

Predicted Manchester United lineup: Lammens; Yoro, centre-back options, Dalot; Baleba, Santos; Amad, Fernandes, Rashford; Mbeumo.

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