Manchester United have arrived in Madrid for their Champions League clash against Atletico with significant absences, as both Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo are sidelined following injuries sustained during the weekend’s match against Tottenham. Manager Michael Carrick has opted for a tactical shuffle to compensate, handing a first-team debut to Carlos Baleba and pushing Bruno Fernandes to the right wing. With Carlos Baleba starting for the first time since his move from Brighton and Bruno Fernandes moving out onto the right wing, head coach Michael Carrick has shuffled his pack for the game. Whether he is carrying a knock, rested or it is tactical is not yet known, as for Maguire. 100% aerial duels, 100% long balls, 100% dribbles: Carlos Baleba emerges as rare bright spot vs. Why Spanish media are so sure Carlos Baleba will be a massive “problem for Atletico” The Peoples Person.
Defensive restructuring is evident in the confirmed line-up, with Leny Yoro maintaining his position at right-back while Diogo Dalot moves to the left flank to cover for the injured Shaw. The centre-back pairing consists of Ayden Heaven and Lisandro Martinez, leaving Harry Maguire to occupy a spot on the bench. Nous Mazraoui remains unavailable due to his ongoing injury, and long-term absentee Manuel Ugarte continues his recovery.
In the midfield, the absence of Mainoo provides an opportunity for new signing Carlos Baleba to make his first start for the club alongside Andrey Santos, who also earns his debut. Youri Tielemans is set to operate in an advanced 8/10 role. Further forward, Fernandes’ deployment on the right allows Bryan Mbeumo to lead the line, with Marcus Rashford positioned on the left wing. Consequently, both Matheus Cunha and Amad have been moved to the substitutes’ bench.
Matthijs de Ligt makes a welcome return to the matchday squad as a substitute after recovering from a back injury. The remaining bench includes goalkeepers Karl Darlow and Ben Mee, alongside outfield options Harry Amass, Dan Armer, Mason Mount, Tyler Fletcher, Shea Lacey, Amad, Matheus Cunha, and Josh Zirkzee.
Upcoming Match Schedule
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- St. Pölten vs. Rapid Vienna II: 16/10/2026, 22:00
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- Fortuna Köln vs. VfB Stuttgart II: 16/10/2026, 22:30
- SV Sandhausen vs. Kickers Offenbach: 16/10/2026, 22:30
