The clash of Man United – Grimsby Town in the EFL Cup second round promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the week, as the League Two underdogs prepare to welcome the Premier League giants to Blundell Park.

With a place in the third round up for grabs, both sides enter the contest with different ambitions but equal determination.

Key facts ahead of Man United – Grimsby Town

This will be the first competitive meeting between the two clubs since 1948, when United claimed a comfortable victory.

For Grimsby, the match represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to test themselves against one of English football’s most storied teams.

David Artell’s men have enjoyed a fine start to their League Two campaign, going unbeaten in six games and winning all three of their home fixtures.

Their attacking record is particularly impressive, having scored the joint-highest number of goals in the division so far.

United, by contrast, are still chasing their first win of the season under new boss Ruben Amorim.

With just one point from their opening two Premier League games, the Portuguese coach knows that failure to progress here could ramp up pressure early in his reign.

United’s poor away form – only two wins from their last 13 matches on the road – also adds intrigue to the tie.

Tactical expectations and prediction

When analysing Man United – Grimsby Town, the gap in quality is undeniable.

United’s squad depth, boosted by high-profile arrivals such as Benjamin Sesko and Manuel Ugarte, should provide enough firepower to see off the Mariners.

Bruno Fernandes is expected to play a central role in an advanced position, linking midfield creativity with attacking precision.

Grimsby, however, will look to capitalize on United’s defensive vulnerability, particularly with Lisandro Martinez still sidelined.

Striker Jaze Kabia, who already has four goals this season, could be the key figure in unsettling United’s backline.

Sports Mole’s prediction: Grimsby Town 1-3 Manchester United.

The Mariners’ energy and form may trouble Amorim’s side, but United’s superior quality and individual brilliance should ultimately prevail.

Team news and possible lineups

Grimsby Town will be without Jason Svanthorsson (calf) and Sam Lavelle (knee), but manager Artell is expected to name his strongest available XI.

Kabia will spearhead the attack, supported by Burns and Amaluzor on the flanks.

Manchester United continue to deal with injury setbacks, as Noussair Mazraoui (thigh) and Lisandro Martinez (knee) remain unavailable.

Nevertheless, Amorim is expected to rotate his squad, handing Benjamin Sesko his first start for the club.

Youngster Tyler Fredricson could be given a chance in defence, while Onana is likely to return between the sticks.

Grimsby Town possible lineup: Pym; Rodgers, Warren, McJannet, Staunton; Amaluzor, McEachran, Turi, Khouri, Burns; Kabia
Manchester United possible lineup: Onana; Shaw, Fredricson, Maguire; Dalot, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dorgu; Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko

The Man United – Grimsby Town fixture may appear one-sided on paper, but with United’s shaky form and Grimsby’s momentum at home, Wednesday night could serve up a far more competitive contest than expected.