According to a report by Evening Standard on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Manchester United manager Michael Carrick could introduce several adjustments to his starting eleven when the Red Devils travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United in Sunday's Premier League encounter.

Manchester United will approach the fixture hoping to recover from their recent disappointing performances, particularly their 2-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. The result has increased expectations on Carrick and his players to deliver a stronger performance against their long-standing rivals.

With injuries affecting several members of the squad, the United manager may be forced to make important decisions regarding his defensive and attacking selections.

Carrick could maintain his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, although the absence of Benjamin Sesko may create an opportunity for Joshua Zirkzee to lead the attack.

Senne Lammens is expected to retain his starting position between the posts. The Belgian goalkeeper has established himself as United's first-choice option and will be aiming to produce another convincing display.

In defence, Diogo Dalot could feature at right-back, with Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez potentially operating together in central defence.

Despite recent discussions surrounding Martinez's comments about the club's transfer business, the Argentine defender remains available for selection.

Meanwhile, Luke Shaw could reclaim his position at left-back if he recovers sufficiently from his recent injury setback.

However, should Shaw fail to regain full fitness before the encounter, Carrick could consider deploying Ayden Heaven or Leny Yoro in the defensive department.

Manchester United's midfield could also witness changes, with Carlos Baleba and Youri Tielemans emerging as possible starters.

Baleba could provide defensive stability and physical strength in midfield, while Tielemans would be expected to contribute through his passing range and ability to dictate possession.

Their partnership could prove particularly valuable against a Leeds United side likely to apply pressure and challenge United for control of the midfield.

Kobbie Mainoo remains another potential option, although his involvement could depend on the outcome of a late fitness evaluation.

In the attacking midfield position, Bruno Fernandes is expected to play a significant role.

The Manchester United captain could return to his familiar number ten position, where his creativity, movement and ability to deliver decisive passes could help improve the team's attacking performance.

Bryan Mbeumo may start on the right side of the attack, while Matheus Cunha could occupy the left-wing position.

The attacking combination would offer United additional movement, speed and creativity in the final third.

Both players will be expected to support the central striker while also creating opportunities through their individual attacking qualities.

Joshua Zirkzee could be handed the responsibility of leading Manchester United's frontline following Sesko's injury.

The Dutch international offers a different attacking approach because of his ability to drop into deeper positions, combine with teammates and participate in attacking build-up play.

His involvement could create space for Fernandes, Cunha and Mbeumo to exploit behind the Leeds defence.

Manchester United's Possible Starting Lineup Against Leeds United (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Senne Lammens.

Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw.

Midfielders: Carlos Baleba and Youri Tielemans.

Attacking Midfielders: Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes and Matheus Cunha.

Centre Forward: Joshua Zirkzee.

Nevertheless, Carrick could still make further adjustments depending on the availability of players recovering from injuries.

Shaw and Mainoo remain among those whose fitness situations could influence the manager's final decisions.

Noussair Mazraoui could also provide additional competition in defence after returning to training.

The Premier League meeting between Leeds United and Manchester United is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Elland Road, with kick-off set for 2:00 pm UK time.

Manchester United will be hoping to overcome their recent difficulties and secure an important victory against one of their traditional rivals.

With Carrick facing several selection decisions, the possible introduction of Zirkzee and changes in midfield could provide United with a fresh approach as they attempt to return to winning ways.

However, the predicted starting eleven remains provisional, with the official team selection expected to be confirmed shortly before kick-off.