Manchester United news
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The gist
Manchester United begin their Champions League campaign against Sabah at Old Trafford on Thursday.
It is their first appearance since 2023-24, with a Manchester derby three days later.
Background
Manchester United are back in the Champions League for the first time since the 2023-24 season, having secured a place in Europe's elite club competition. They have struggled in the competition recently, crashing out at the group stage in two of their last three appearances and not progressing beyond the last 16 since 2019. Domestically, they have made a slow start to the Premier League season, taking just four points from their first four games. Manager Michael Carrick is in his first full season in charge and is managing a squad with several injuries.
How it unfolded
- Sep 6, 2026Manchester United draw 2-2 at Everton after conceding a 96th-minute equaliser, leaving them 11th in the Premier League with four points from four games.
- Sep 9, 2026Manager Michael Carrick speaks to reporters ahead of the Champions League opener, calling the competition 'magical' and expressing confidence.
- Sep 10, 2026Manchester United host Azerbaijani champions Sabah at Old Trafford in their first Champions League league-phase match.
Who’s saying what
- Manager
- Michael Carrick says the Champions League is 'magical' and that his team is ready to rise, despite a slow start to the Premier League season.
- Analysts
- United have won only one of their last seven Champions League group-stage matches, but home advantage and a talented squad should favour them against first-time league-phase opponents Sabah.
Still unverified
Manchester United are reportedly 'keeping close watch' on a £51 million Brazilian striker, according to a Yahoo Sports report. This is a single-source transfer rumour and has not been confirmed by the club.