Manchester United vs Sabah: Lineup Predictions and Team Updates

Manchester United Faces Sabah in Champions League Opener

Manchester United will kick off their Champions League campaign at Old Trafford this Thursday against Sabah, newcomers from Azerbaijan making their European group stage debut. This marks the first time Sabah will meet an English team in European competition.

Michael Carrick steps into his first Champions League fixture as United's head coach, with a Manchester derby against City looming just three days later. Despite winning only one of their last seven group matches since the 2023-24 season, United’s home ground and skilled roster should give them an edge over these fresh opponents.

Team News and Injuries

Several players remain sidelined for Manchester United. Matthijs de Ligt is out due to a back injury, while Manuel Ugarte (knee), Carlos Baleba (ankle), Amad Diallo (ankle), and Tom Heaton (hamstring) are also unavailable. Marcus Rashford was taken off during Sunday’s game versus Everton because of a muscle issue but is expected to be fit. Still, considering the tight schedule leading up to the derby, Carrick might rest him as a precaution.

With the derby approaching on Sunday, Carrick is likely to adjust the lineup, possibly making four changes from the side that drew against Everton. Defenders Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui could replace Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw. Midfield may see Andrey Santos coming in for Youri Tielemans, and Benjamin Sesko, who scored as a substitute last game, might start instead of Rashford, potentially shifting Matheus Cunha to the left wing.

Predicted Starting XI for Manchester United

• Goalkeeper: Lammens
• Defenders: Dalot, Yoro, Martinez, Mazraoui
• Midfielders: Santos, Mainoo
• Attackers: Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha
• Forward: Sesko

Match Details

The match kicks off at 20:00 BST on Thursday, 10 September 2026.

Broadcast Information

Fans in the UK can catch the live action on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate. Streaming is also available via HBO Max.