One journo thinks Carrick has already indicated which two players will be starting Manchester derby after getting 0 mins v Sabah
· Yahoo Sports
When Manchester United entered the interval boasting a 3-0 lead over Sabah, Michael Carrick knew he had the freedom to make changes in the second half.
Indeed, the manager took the opportunity to rest and withdraw some of his key starters ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby.
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Carrick utilises fringe players in second half of UCL clash
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Youri Tielemans was hooked at half-time, with Mason Mount taking his place, while Bryan Mbeumo, Kobbie Mainoo and Patrick Dorgu were all brought off before the game reached the dying embers.
It allowed Joshua Zirkzee to make his first appearance of the term, while youngsters Shea Lacey and Harry Amass were granted just under 20 minutes plus stoppage time to showcase their abilities on a European night under the lights.
In turn, the likes of Diogo Dalot and Marcus Rashford were unused substitutes – and Samuel Luckhurst believes the pair were informed that they’d feature prominently against Manchester City, presumably from the off.
“Carrick had a word with Dalot and Rashford as they jogged back [to the bench]. Neither coming on but looked to be his way of saying, ‘You’ll be needed on Sunday’,”said Luckhurst on Twitter/X.
Rashford chomping at the bit to play and bag first goal
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Rashford has started the last two Premier League fixtures and, while he’d have loved to get in on the action and try to open his goalscoring account tonight, he’ll relish the opportunity of doing so against City.
Enzo Maresca’s side, who have the advantage of an extra 48 hours of rest and preparation due to their Champions League opener being on Tuesday night, are unbeaten in 2026/2027 thus far, having won all four matches across all competitions.
Meanwhile, United have endured a slightly rocky start, particularly when their campaign kicked off with a 2-0 away defeat to newly promoted Hull City.
They sought to make amends by hammering Ipswich Town 5-2 the following week, but slumped to a 2-2 draw to Everton last time out in the top flight.