Meino Returns to Lead United as City Derby Sparks Old Trafford Showdown
17 January 2026
Match Preview
Michael Carrick has named his starting XI for his first game in charge of Manchester United, as they host local rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford in the 22nd round of the Premier League.
He brings Meino back into the lineup, pairing him with Casemiro in midfield, while Bruno Fernandes, Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo are trusted to lead the attack.
On United's bench sit Benjamin Sisco, Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, Manuel Ogarti and Leni Yuro.
City's Plan
For City, Pep Guardiola leaves Ryan Ait-Nouri and Rayan Cherki on the bench, and starts Jeremi Doku and Antoine Semenyo behind Erling Haaland.
The City lineup features Donnarumma in goal, a back line of Louis, Jo hanov, Allen and Ak i, with Rodri, Bernardo Silva and Foden in midfield.
For United, the starting XI shows goalkeeper Lemins; defenders Maguire, Martinez, Luke Shaw; midfield Dalot, Meino, Casemiro, Dordjo; attackers Bruno Fernandes, Mbeumo, Diallo.
City begin with the following lineup:
Goalkeeper: Donnarumma
Defense: Louis, Jo Hanov, Allen, Aki
Midfield: Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Foden
Attack: Doku, Haaland, Semenyo
It’s noted that Manchester United enter the match in seventh place with 32 points, while Manchester City sit second on 43 points.
Note: kick-off is scheduled for 13:30 local time.
