Man Utd predicted line-up against Arsenal as Carrick weighs tactical decisions
Manchester United head to north London this weekend with momentum restored and selection questions sharpened by last Sunday’s derby victory. The 2-0 victory over Manchester City was not only a remarkable performance, but one that forced Michael Carrick to make some real decisions ahead of a demanding trip to the Premier League to face Arsenal.
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Man Utd squad shaped by derby impact
The decision to start Patrick Dorgu and Amad Diallo ahead of Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha in the derby paid off, with Bryan Mbeumo leading the line and stretching City’s backline. This success, however, has not closed the door to change. Carrick has openly acknowledged that different opponents require different solutions, and Arsenal’s aerial power is clearly a factor to consider.
One option being explored is to reintroduce Sesko centrally and move Mbeumo out wide, a move designed to provide more physical presence against a defense comfortable defending crosses and set pieces. Carrick confirmed on Friday that “some games will have different styles”, a concise summary of his pragmatic approach since taking office.
The emphasis, however, remains on stability. United were controlled, disciplined and assertive last weekend, and there is a strong case to be made for relying on the same attacking unit to test Arsenal’s defensive structure at the Emirates.
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Balance in midfield and focus on leadership
In midfield, the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo continues to be one of United’s most encouraging developments this season. His performance alongside Casemiro against City highlighted his composure and tactical acumen, qualities which will again be required against Arsenal’s energetic central unit.
Casemiro, whose departure at the end of the season is now confirmed, remains an essential figure in the short term. His experience, sense of positioning and leadership provide Mainoo with a platform to play with freedom. Ahead of them, captain Bruno Fernandes should operate as the No.10, tasked with linking play and finding space between Arsenal’s midfield and defense.
Carrick spoke warmly of the team’s state of mind after the derby. He described the group as being “in a very good place”, highlighting both the emotion of last weekend’s result and the intensity of training since. That sense of focus will be vital in what he called “a real challenge.”
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Defensive Options and Availability Updates
In defense, Noussair Mazraoui is available again after his return from the Africa Cup of Nations, but everything seems to indicate that Diogo Dalot will retain his place at right-back. Carrick is reluctant to disrupt a defensive unit that looked stable and resilient against City.
Shea Lacey is back from suspension, providing another option in wide areas, but injuries continue to limit selection. Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee remain sidelined and will not feature in north London.
Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez should continue at centre-back, with Luke Shaw at left-back. The priority will be to manage Arsenal’s movements in wide areas while retaining the compact shape that served United so well last time out.
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Predicted Man Utd XI vs Arsenal
Barring any late changes, Carrick is likely to name a team that combines confidence and caution. The predicted line-up reflects both recent performances and the opposition’s tactical planning.
Predicted Man Utd XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Dorgu; Mbeumo.
Injured: De Ligt, Zirkzee.
The match takes place at the Emirates Stadium, home of Arsenalwhich kicks off at 4:30 p.m. GMT on Sunday January 25, 2026. For Manchester Unitedit represents another test of progress under Carrick and an opportunity to test themselves against one of the most consistent teams in the league. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
