Man United writers pick XI vs Atletico Madrid in Champions League
Man United writers pick XI vs Atletico Madrid

Manchester United are in the Spanish capital today as they prepare to face Atletico Madrid in their second Champions League league phase fixture. United picked up a routine three points against Sabah FK last month but Michael Carrick is in desperate need of another win tonight to ease the pressure.

The Reds have not won since the 4-0 victory over Sabah and in their last two matches they have picked up unconvincing draws against Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur. Carrick will be without Kobbie Mainoo, Luke Shaw, Noussair Mazraoui, Patrick Dorgu and Benjamin Sesko for tonight's game.

Carlos Baleba made his debut off the bench against Spurs and could make his first start tonight. Amad came through his first game of the season unscathed and could start tonight.

Tyrone Marshall's team

There are going to be more square pegs in round holes with United's injury problems and that is particularly the case in defence. I'd go with Dalot at left back and Yoro at right back, with Maguire and Martinez in the middle. Although I did consider Heaven at left back as well.

Mainoo's absence means Baleba has to start and I'd actually go with him alongside Santos. Tielemans needs a rest and United need legs in midfield in this game.

The attack is a bit of an issue as well. I'd bring Rashford back on the left, play Mbeumo through the middle and keep Amad in the team.

Steven Railston's team

Ideally, Carrick would make a change in central defence, but injuries mean his hands are tied, so Dalot and Yoro have to play at left-back and right-back, respectively.

I was in favour of starting Baleba against Tottenham last weekend, even if he was half-fit, and he must be one of the first names on the team sheet today. I'd also give Mount a start to provide some much-needed intensity in midfield.

Amad, Mbeumo and Rashford feel like the best options across the attacking line. The latter was a late substitute against Spurs and will be fresh to perform against a team he played against on loan with Barcelona last season.

Jack Flintham's team

United have been thrown a curveball with Mainoo and Shaw out. Dalot will need to fill in at left-back while Yoro continues at right-back.

In midfield, Baleba has to make his full debut after doing well against Spurs at the weekend. He could be joined by Mount which is a risk but he gives United more creativity compared to Santos or even Tielemans who has struggled for form recently.

No Sesko means there is room for Amad and Mbeumo in the team. Rashford should come in ahead of Cunha but I wouldn't be surprised to see Carrick stick with the former Atleti man.