How Manchester United Could Line Up Against ATM Without Two Injured Stars

According to a report by Manchester Evening News, on Monday October 12, 2026, Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has confirmed that Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo will miss Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League encounter against Atletico Madrid after suffering injuries during the team’s recent Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur.

The absence of both players presents a significant selection challenge for Carrick, who must reorganise his starting eleven ahead of a difficult European assignment at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.

Shaw and Mainoo were unavailable for Monday’s training session and did not travel with the squad to Spain. Their absence comes at a difficult time for United, who are hoping to build on their impressive 4-0 Champions League victory over Sabah FK.

Despite these setbacks, Carrick still has several quality players capable of stepping into the starting lineup.

Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens is expected to retain his position between the posts. His shot-stopping ability and composure will be important against an Atletico Madrid side known for creating dangerous attacking opportunities.

Defenders: Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot

With Shaw unavailable, Carrick could move Diogo Dalot into the left-back position while allowing Leny Yoro to operate at right-back.

Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez could form the central defensive partnership, providing experience, physical strength and composure.

Although Matthijs de Ligt has returned to the travelling squad following a lengthy injury absence, Carrick may prefer not to rush him into the starting eleven.

Midfielders: Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Bruno Fernandes

Mainoo’s absence could provide Carlos Baleba with an opportunity to make his first competitive start for Manchester United.

The midfielder recently made his debut against Tottenham and could partner Youri Tielemans in the middle of the pitch.

Baleba would provide defensive protection, energy and ball-winning ability, while Tielemans could contribute through his passing range and ability to control possession.

Captain Bruno Fernandes would operate in the attacking midfield position, where his creativity and vision could prove decisive against Atletico Madrid’s organised defence.

Forwards: Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Amad Diallo

With Benjamin Sesko also unavailable through injury, Carrick could deploy Bryan Mbeumo as the central striker.

Mbeumo scored against Tottenham and could retain his place in the attacking lineup.

Matheus Cunha could start from the left wing, using his movement, dribbling and ability to create scoring opportunities.

Amad Diallo, who recently returned from injury, could occupy the right wing, providing pace and creativity against Atletico’s defenders.

This attacking combination would allow United to threaten through quick transitions while maintaining enough technical quality to create opportunities in possession.

Manchester United’s Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Although Shaw and Mainoo’s injuries represent major setbacks, Manchester United still possess enough quality to compete against Diego Simeone’s side.

Carrick will need his midfielders to remain disciplined, his defenders to maintain concentration and his attackers to take advantage of scoring opportunities.

A positive result in Madrid would strengthen United’s Champions League campaign and provide a much-needed confidence boost following their inconsistent domestic performances.

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