Bruno Fernandes is set to return to Manchester United's starting lineup for the Premier League clash at Chelsea, following clear-the-air talks with manager Michael Carrick. The Red Devils captain is expected to feature at Stamford Bridge after remaining an unused substitute in the 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth.
Fernandes retains captaincy
Carrick has confirmed that Fernandes will keep the skipper's armband after his public criticism of the tactics used in the recent heavy Champions League loss in Como. United are winless in eight games after their worst-ever start to a Premier League season, leaving Carrick facing a tough run of fixtures to save his job, starting with the lunchtime kick-off in west London.
Defensive concerns and predicted lineup
Carrick's main concern remains his defence, a significant issue against a Chelsea side that has scored 26 goals in 11 matches under Xabi Alonso. With no fit left-backs available, including Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot is expected to start there again, with centre-back Leny Yoro preferred over Noussair Mazraoui on the right. Lisandro Martinez should partner Harry Maguire in the centre of defence, while Senne Lammens remains first-choice goalkeeper.
Matheus Cunha has fallen out of favour, with Carrick preferring Bryan Mbeumo up front as United deal with the absence of striker Benjamin Sesko, who is out until January with a shin injury. Carrick may play Fernandes out wide again if Cunha does not start, with Youri Tielemans in the No. 10 role. Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba are the favoured midfield pairing, while Kobbie Mainoo will be fit to feature after returning to training this week.
Predicted Manchester United XI vs Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Yoro, Maguire, Martinez, Dalot; Andrey Santos, Baleba; Amad, Tielemans, Fernandes; Mbeumo. Injured: Shaw, Sesko, Dorgu, Ugarte. Doubt: Rashford. The match kicks off at 12.30pm GMT on Saturday October 31, 2026, at Stamford Bridge, and will be broadcast on TNT Sports.
