Manchester United return to the UEFA Champions League on Thursday night as Michael Carrick’s side host Azerbaijani champions Sabah at Old Trafford, with the Red Devils looking to begin their European campaign with a victory.

United are back in the Champions League for the first time since the 2023-24 season after securing a third-place finish in the Premier League last term. However, Carrick’s side have made an inconsistent start to the new campaign, winning once, drawing once and losing once in their opening three league matches.

“It’s a magical competition,” United boss Michael Carrick said ahead of the game. “It’s where we all want to be. When you’re out of it, you realise how special it is, and when you’re in it, you want to make the most of it.”

Manchester United Team News vs Sabah

United have several players unavailable ahead of the Champions League fixture.

Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined with a back problem, while Manuel Ugarte continues to recover from a knee injury. Carlos Baleba is also unavailable with an ankle problem, while Amad Diallo and goalkeeper Tom Heaton remain out.

There is also uncertainty surrounding Luke Shaw, although the left-back’s absence from Wednesday’s training session was not because of a new injury.

Carrick confirmed that Shaw was given another recovery day before the match.

“We’ll see by tomorrow how he is, but it’s not an ongoing thing or a plan,” Carrick said.

Marcus Rashford is another player to monitor. The forward was withdrawn during United’s 2-2 draw against Everton after feeling a minor muscular issue, but he has since returned to training and could be available for the Sabah game.

There is better news regarding Mason Mount, who has recovered from his hamstring problem and has returned to team training. Meanwhile, Benjamin Sesko is pushing for his first start after returning to action following his pre-season injury absence.

Manchester United’s Predicted Starting XI

Lammens; Dalot, Yoro, Martinez, Dorgu; Santos, Mainoo; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.