Manchester United vs Manchester City: Carrick’s Big Sesko Call Ahead of Old Trafford Derby

Manchester United head into the derby with a familiar problem, finding the right balance in attack. Michael Carrick has options, though not complete certainty, and that is what makes his team selection for Manchester City worth watching.

Thursday’s 4-0 win over Sabah FK helped. It does not erase a mixed opening to the season, but it gave United rhythm, goals and a reminder that a proper centre-forward changes the shape of this side. Before that, Carrick’s team had already delivered extremes, losing to newly promoted Hull, beating Ipswich 5-2, then drawing 2-2 at Everton after leading twice and still failing to see the game out.

That leaves United going into Sunday’s match at Old Trafford with questions still hanging over them. City, now led by Enzo Maresca, have started cleanly and efficiently, winning all four matches in all competitions. United have had more noise around them, and some of it is justified.

Benjamin Sesko gives United a focal point

The clearest selection issue is up front. Benjamin Sesko has returned from a shin injury that wrecked much of his 2025/26 campaign and kept him out of pre-season. In the space of a week, he has made himself very hard to ignore. He scored with a late header at Everton, then followed it with another goal on his first start since May.

There is logic in keeping him in the side. United look more coherent with a fixed target in the middle, somebody who occupies centre-backs and gives Bruno Fernandes a reference point. Fernandes will start as the No 10, that much is obvious. Bryan Mbeumo should also keep his place on the right.

The real debate is on the left. Matheus Cunha and Marcus Rashford are competing for the role, though Patrick Dorgu has forced his way into that discussion after a strong display at left-back in midweek. If Carrick believes United need more protection against City’s wide threat, Dorgu higher up the pitch with Luke Shaw returning behind him could make sense.

Defensive choices depend on Luke Shaw fitness

That scenario depends entirely on Shaw. He missed the European win and remains a doubt. If he is fit enough to start, Carrick gains flexibility. If he is not, Dorgu may have to stay at left-back, which changes the picture further forward.

Elsewhere, the defence looks more straightforward. Diogo Dalot and Harry Maguire are expected to return, with Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro competing around them for places at the back. Senne Lammens should continue in goal.

There is less uncertainty in midfield. Kobbie Mainoo played only 64 minutes on Thursday, while Youri Tielemans came off at half-time and there was no injury issue there. That strongly suggests both are being lined up to start against City. Mason Mount has at least shown he is fit enough to contribute, which matters given the schedule.

Manchester derby arrives too soon for Carlos Baleba

The derby looks set to come too early for £70 million signing Carlos Baleba, who is still recovering from the ankle ligament injury suffered in pre-season. Amad Diallo is also out with an ankle problem, Matthijs de Ligt is still working back after surgery on a long-term back issue, Manuel Ugarte remains unavailable after cruciate ligament surgery, and Tom Heaton has a hamstring injury.

So the shape of this team is becoming clearer, even if one or two attacking spots remain unsettled. Carrick needs threat, but he also needs structure. Against City, sentiment counts for nothing and reputation even less. The derby usually exposes whatever you are. Right now, United look better with Sesko leading the line.

Predicted Manchester United XI

Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Mainoo, Tielemans; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Dorgu; Sesko

Kick-off is 4.30pm BST on Sunday, September 13 at Old Trafford.