Excitement is mounting among Manchester United supporters ahead of the Premier League fixture release on Friday morning, with the schedule poised to provide the first look at life under new permanent manager Michael Carrick.
The Old Trafford faithful are optimistic about a successful campaign after Carrick surpassed expectations last term. Appointed on an interim basis in January following the exit of Ruben Amorim, the former United midfield legend steered the side to a third place finish in the Premier League, delivering a return to the Champions League for the first time since 2023.
However, Carrick may face an early selection dilemma, with several first team stars in danger of being unavailable for the opening match of the campaign.
The World Cup problem
The issue stems from the FIFA World Cup 2026, which got underway in spectacular fashion in North America last week. The extended six week tournament will reach its climax with the final in New Jersey on July 19, just over a month before the first round of Premier League fixtures begins on August 22.
That date has been delayed to allow players additional recovery time following the World Cup. However, those competing in the latter stages of the competition are still unlikely to be completely rejuvenated before needing to get back into shape for the new season.
The situation is made worse by the fact the World Cup kicked off shortly after the domestic campaign concluded, meaning United stars selected by their nations went straight into pre tournament training camps. The predicament could leave Carrick with little option but to rest some of his biggest names at the start of the season, especially if they reach the final.
Nine United players at the World Cup
United have plenty of representation in the US, Canada and Mexico, and that includes nine important players who could go deep into the tournament.
A final between England and Portugal could prove particularly problematic for Carrick and his coaching staff, with four players potentially involved. Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot are in the Portugal squad, while Kobbie Mainoo and outcast Marcus Rashford are representing England.
Every other United player at the tournament is the sole representative of the club in their respective national side.
Key United players at World Cup 2026:
Player Nation
Matheus Cunha Brazil
Diogo Dalot Portugal
Bruno Fernandes Portugal
Amad Ivory Coast
Senne Lammens Belgium
Kobbie Mainoo England
Marcus Rashford England
Noussair Mazraoui Morocco
Lisandro Martinez Argentina
The bottom line
Nine first team players at the World Cup. A final on July 19. The Premier League season starts on August 22.
Carrick has a headache before the fixture list is even released.
Fernandes. Mainoo. Martinez. Rashford. All could go deep. All could need rest.
The new permanent manager might have to start the season without some of his biggest names.
It’s not ideal. But it’s the reality of a World Cup summer. And Carrick will have to manage it.
