Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim will be aiming to secure his first competitive victory of the season as the Red Devils prepare for their EFL Cup clash at Blundell Park.

The tie of Man United vs Grimsby Town is expected to offer the perfect platform for rotation, with Amorim set to hand opportunities to fringe players and new signings while still fielding a side capable of overcoming the League Two outfit.

Predicted XI for Man United vs Grimsby Town

The starting lineup is likely to reflect a balance between experience and youth.

With the goalkeeping situation under scrutiny, André Onana is tipped to start as Amorim looks to restore confidence in his No.1.

Academy graduate Tyler Fredricson could be handed a full debut in defence alongside Harry Maguire, while Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot provide width from the flanks.

In midfield, Manuel Ugarte should anchor the play, supported by Kobbie Mainoo, who is expected to get valuable minutes.

Bruno Fernandes is set to operate in a more advanced role, providing creativity behind the front line.

New signing Benjamin Sesko is widely anticipated to make his first start since arriving from RB Leipzig, spearheading the attack alongside Matheus Cunha and left-sided option Patrick Dorgu.

Predicted XI: Onana; Shaw, Fredricson, Maguire; Dalot, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dorgu; Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko.

Key absentees and available players

As confirmed in recent updates, United remain without Lisandro Martinez and Noussair Mazraoui.

Martinez is sidelined until late October with a knee problem, while Mazraoui is nearing full recovery from a thigh injury and could be back in contention by the weekend.

Their absence leaves Amorim short of defensive depth, but Fredricson’s emergence provides a promising alternative.

The likes of Fernandes, Mainoo, and Sesko are all expected to feature prominently, with Amorim keen to test different combinations in competitive action.

Tactical approach for Man United vs Grimsby Town

Amorim’s tactical plan will likely focus on control and fluidity in midfield, with Ugarte shielding the backline and Fernandes dictating play further forward.

The inclusion of Sesko offers a direct, physical presence up front, while Cunha’s movement and Dorgu’s pace from the left should stretch Grimsby’s defensive structure.

Defensively, United’s makeshift backline may be tested by Grimsby’s energy, but Amorim is expected to instruct his full-backs to push high and pin the opposition deep.

The tie provides a low-risk environment for Amorim to trial rotations, but it also represents a crucial chance to secure momentum heading into the Premier League fixtures ahead.

Ultimately, the Man United vs Grimsby Town clash is about more than just progression in the EFL Cup — it’s an opportunity for Amorim to solidify his squad structure, build confidence in new signings, and show early signs of a tactical identity.