Manchester United Possible Starting XI Against ATM As Carrick Faces Two Major Injury Setbacks

According to a report by Manchester Evening News on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces a difficult selection challenge ahead of his team’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Atletico Madrid, with Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo unavailable because of injuries.

The two players reportedly suffered fitness problems during Manchester United’s 1-1 Premier League draw against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, leaving Carrick with important decisions to make in defence and midfield.

Despite these setbacks, the Red Devils possess several quality players capable of stepping into the starting lineup as they prepare for a demanding European fixture against Diego Simeone’s side.

Carrick could maintain his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation while introducing some changes to accommodate the absence of the injured players.

In goal, Senne Lammens could retain his position as Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper. The Belgian shot-stopper has demonstrated his ability to make important saves and could play a significant role against Atletico Madrid.

The defensive lineup could consist of Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot.

Yoro could operate at right-back, while Maguire and Martinez form the central defensive partnership. Their experience and defensive awareness could help Manchester United withstand Atletico Madrid’s attacking pressure.

Meanwhile, Dalot could move to left-back to replace Shaw. The Portuguese defender’s versatility makes him an important option for Carrick, especially with other defensive alternatives also struggling with fitness concerns.

In midfield, Carlos Baleba could be handed an opportunity to start alongside Youri Tielemans.

Baleba’s energy, physical presence and ability to recover possession could provide Manchester United with additional protection in front of the defence.

Tielemans, on the other hand, could contribute through his passing ability and composure, helping the visitors control possession and build attacks from deeper positions.

Bruno Fernandes is expected to occupy the attacking midfield role. The Manchester United captain remains one of the team’s most creative players, and his ability to deliver accurate passes and create goalscoring opportunities could prove decisive.

In attack, Marcus Rashford could be introduced on the left wing, providing pace and directness against Atletico Madrid’s defensive line.

Amad Diallo could start on the opposite flank, where his dribbling ability and movement could create problems for the Spanish side.

Bryan Mbeumo could lead Manchester United’s attack, particularly with Benjamin Sesko also dealing with injury concerns.

The forward scored during United’s recent draw against Tottenham and could be given another opportunity to operate as the central striker.

Matheus Cunha and Joshua Zirkzee could also offer Carrick valuable alternatives from the bench if changes become necessary during the match.

Manchester United Possible Starting XI Against Atletico Madrid (4-2-3-1)

Defenders: Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot.

Midfielders: Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Bruno Fernandes.

Forwards: Amad Diallo, Marcus Rashford and Bryan Mbeumo.

Although the absence of Shaw and Mainoo presents a significant challenge, Manchester United still have enough quality within their squad to compete against Atletico Madrid.

Carrick will be hoping his selected players can maintain defensive discipline, control the midfield and take advantage of their attacking opportunities as the Red Devils seek an important Champions League victory away from home.

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