Man Utd's squad depth exposed as Carrick faces season-defining week

Michael Carrick's Manchester United have dropped more points than they have gained in their easiest opening six games, and now face a week that could define their season: a Champions League opener against Sabah and the first Manchester derby. Analysis shows a gulf in quality between his starting XI and his bench, raising questions over rotation.

  • Next fixtures: Champions League vs Sabah (Thursday), Manchester derby vs City (Sunday)
  • Pressure: Carrick must earn fans' trust after poor start
  • Squad size: Second biggest in Premier League, but imbalanced
  • Depth ranking: Ninth in right-back, 18th at left-back
  • Investment: Only Everton and Liverpool spent less on defence since 2022
  • Key players to step up: Leny Yoro, Patrick Dorgu, Andrey Santos, Joshua Zirkzee

Confirmed situation

No official line-ups have been announced for the Sabah match. The source discusses potential rotation, with Carrick expected to make changes for the European tie. The following players are mentioned as those who could feature: Leny Yoro, Patrick Dorgu, Andrey Santos, and Joshua Zirkzee. Benjamin Sesko is highlighted as an impact substitute who has performed well.

Carrick made his first substitutions in the 70th minute against Everton, and data from that game illustrates a decline in performance after changes.

What was said

"It puts a bit of pressure on United. They've got City next week and European games starting in midweek."

— Gary Neville, speaking after Man Utd's 2-2 draw with Everton

Neville's words were prophetic, as United now face a week that could define their season. The pressure is on Carrick to manage his squad effectively, with the Champions League tie against Sabah providing an opportunity for fringe players to prove their worth.

The numbers

  • Man Utd have the second biggest squad in the Premier League, according to Transfermarkt.
  • They rank highest in forward depth, but eighth in midfield and 10th in defence.
  • They are ninth in right-back depth and 18th at left-back.
  • Since 2022, only Everton and Liverpool have spent less on defence.
  • United have the highest net spend of any Premier League side since 2022.

Data from the Everton game shows that after substitutions, United's territorial identity shifts: they play more in the opposition half but create fewer chances and concede more opportunities. They also engage in fewer duels, inviting pressure.

Why Carrick's rotation dilemma is deeper than it seems

The problem is not just squad size but balance. With Luke Shaw's injury history, left-back is a constant concern, and the lack of investment in defence has left them thin. The starting XI is clear, but the drop-off to the bench is stark. Against Hull, four of the starting XI were dropped in the next two games, showing that even minor changes disrupt the team.

Carrick needs his fringe players to step up, especially with the derby looming. Benjamin Sesko is the exception, but one impact sub is not enough. The likes of Yoro, Dorgu, Santos, and Zirkzee must deliver if given the chance on Thursday.

Talking points

  • Should Carrick prioritise the Champions League over the derby, or is league form more important given their poor start?
  • Is the lack of investment in defence a deliberate strategy or a financial constraint that will haunt them?
  • Can a manager truly rotate when the data shows such a clear drop-off? Is it a personnel problem or a tactical one?
  • Will the pressure of a "season-defining week" force Carrick to play his strongest XI in both matches, risking fatigue?

What happens next

Man Utd face Sabah in the Champions League on Thursday, a match that could see Carrick rotate his side. A win would ease pressure, but a poor performance could intensify scrutiny before the Manchester derby on Sunday. The results of these two games will likely shape United's season.

Frequently asked questions

Who is likely to be rested for the Sabah match?

Carrick is expected to rotate, with fringe players like Leny Yoro, Patrick Dorgu, Andrey Santos, and Joshua Zirkzee hoping for opportunities. Benjamin Sesko is an impact sub who could feature.

What is the main concern about Man Utd's squad?

The main concern is the gulf in quality between the starting XI and the substitutes, particularly in defence and midfield, despite having the second biggest squad. This is highlighted by data showing a drop-off after substitutions.

When are Man Utd's next two matches?

They play Sabah in the Champions League on Thursday, followed by the Manchester derby against City on Sunday.

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