Manchester United are set to enter the Carabao Cup with a third-round clash against Barnsley at Old Trafford.
While the Reds are clear favourites against League One opposition, this is not a United side that can afford to underestimate any opponent. Erik ten Hag saw his team get back to winning ways in the Premier League, with a 3-0 with over Southampton in the Premier League, and we now have a glorious opportunity to make it back-to-back wins against Barnsley.
In Ten Hag’s first season as United manager, the Carabao Cup was a happy hunting ground for the Dutchman. United lifted the trophy in 2023 after beating Newcastle United in a memorable Wembley final.
United are entering the tournament in the third round due to our involvement in the Europa League. It comes at a time Ten Hag needs to win football matches, and we feel it’s a golden opportunity to do so against a lesser opponent.
How to watch: Manchester United vs Barnsley
The Tykes’ visit to Old Trafford kicks off at 8pm and tickets are still available if you are aware of 1st4.
Alternatively, the game will be broadcast on Sky Sports Football, as well as SkyGo for subscribers.
You can also follow the coverage at Stretty News where we will publish each goal and main highlight.
Team news
Leny Yoro and Mason Mount will be unavailable for the game as they continue to recovery from injuries, with Tyrell Malacia being another definitely set to miss out.
There are some doubts over some of the players who featured over the weekend – such as Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire.
Meanwhile, it remains to be seen if Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund are ready to return after spells out with injuries.
“We need everyone and hopefully players are returning,” Ten Hag said on Saturday following our victory over the Saints. “It will not be the case for the next game, but hopefully in the next weeks they [Hojlund, Mount and Shaw] will return to the squad.”
Matthijs de Ligt picked up a cramp against Southampton and should be fine to feature if needed.
However, in playing Barnsley, Ten Hag has a chance to play some of the fringe players who haven’t featured much this season.
The likes of Antony and Harry Amass might get minutes to prove themselves in the Carabao Cup this season.
Barnsley have started the 2024/25 season strongly and they had to overcome Wigan Athletic and Sheffield United in previous rounds.
[Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images]
