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10 September 2026

Manchester United hammered Sabah FK 4-0 in their opening Champions League match at Old Trafford on Thursday.

Michael Carrick will be especially pleased to have finally watched his side register a clean sheet.

The displays of a few individuals would also have encouraged him ahead of the hugely important Manchester derby this weekend.

The derby was evidently in the head coach’s thoughts when he selected his starting XI, as he opted to rest players such as Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire.

His changes during the game also carried a clear message, with Youri Tielemans taken off at half-time as Carrick chose to protect him ahead of Sunday’s clash.

The Belgian found things difficult against Hull City in the opener, but gradually, with increasing minutes under his belt, he has begun to find his rhythm.

He is now one of the first names on the teamsheet, and there is good reason for that.

The former Aston Villa midfielder registered an assist, while also creating two chances and one big chance. Two of his passes counted as key passes.

Youri Tielemans misplaced only one pass in the first half, finishing his 45-minute outing with a pass accuracy of 98%.

His precision was such that both of his crosses reached their intended target. The Belgium international was just as effective without the ball, winning both of his aerial duels.

He also made one interception, recovered possession three times and blocked one shot on goal.

The summer signing has become a very important part of United’s midfield unit, and Carrick will need him at his best if his team are to come out on top against the Cityzens.