Manchester United is set to visit Craven Cottage this Sunday, seeking to overcome a recent string of unfavorable outcomes that include losses in the Manchester derby and an early exit from the EFL Cup. The team, currently positioned 13th in the Premier League after securing only one victory in their initial four matches, faces significant pressure to perform. Manager Michael Carrick is expected to introduce substantial alterations to the squad, reintroducing several first-choice players who were rested or unavailable for the recent cup fixture.
The upcoming Premier League encounter against Fulham is scheduled for Sunday, September 20, 2026, with a kick-off time of 4:30 PM UTC. This match holds considerable importance for Manchester United as they strive to regain momentum and improve their standing in the league. Fans in the UK can catch the live broadcast on Sky Sports Main Event.
Regarding team news, several players remain sidelined due to injury. Carlos Baleba is still recovering from an ankle issue, while Manuel Ugarte (knee), Tom Heaton, and Amad Diallo are also unavailable. Diallo has yet to feature this season, having sustained an ankle injury during pre-season training. Matthijs de Ligt is progressing in his recovery from back surgery, currently undergoing individual training sessions and not yet integrated back into the main team.
However, there is positive news with Luke Shaw, who missed recent games against Brighton and Manchester City due to a minor muscular problem, expected to return to the left-back position, potentially replacing Noussair Mazraoui. Key defensive figures Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez are also slated to start, alongside goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Diogo Dalot is anticipated to retain his spot at right-back. In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo is expected to feature, displacing Andrey Santos. Upfront, a strong attacking lineup is predicted, with Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo likely to support Benjamin Sesko, who is poised to make his first Premier League start of the season. Marcus Rashford's inclusion, however, remains uncertain.
The predicted starting lineup for Manchester United against Fulham is a 4-2-3-1 formation: Lammens in goal; a defensive line comprising Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, and Shaw; a midfield pivot of Mainoo and Tielemans; an attacking trio of Mbeumo, Fernandes, and Cunha; and Sesko leading the line as the sole striker. This strategic selection highlights Carrick's intention to field a robust and experienced squad to navigate this crucial fixture.
As Manchester United prepares for their clash against Fulham, the focus is firmly on securing a much-needed victory to turn their season around. With key players returning and a reshuffled lineup, the team aims to deliver a strong performance and climb the Premier League table. The match promises to be an engaging contest as both sides vie for supremacy on the pitch.
