Manchester United continue their good run of form into another cup competiton as they host Charlton Athletic in the Quarter Finals of the Carabao Cup. Manchester United are close to silverware and with only Manchester City left in the competiton that should worry them, it is a huge chance. League One Charlton know United have struggled with lower level opposition of late. Two losses to Middlesbrough on penalties in the last seven years, a stoppage time defeat to Bristol City in 2018 and of course, a 4-0 loss to MK Dons in 2014.
United are of course favourites and will be allowed to rotate more than some at this stage in the competition. Especially with huge league ties against Manchester City and Arsenal in the next two weeks. But will they get the job done at Old Trafford? Here’s all you need to know:
Manchester United vs Charlton Match Information:
Teams: Manchester United and Charlton Athletic
Date: Tuesday 10th January 2023
KO Time: 20:00 GMT
Location: Old Trafford
Managers: Erik ten Hag and Dean Holden
Referee:
Manchester United vs Charlton Team news:
Manchester United
Erik ten Hag will be without Donny van de Beek and Axel Tuanzebe due to injury. Bruno Fernandes is also suspended after being booked against Aston Villa and Burnley. Facundo Pellistri, Kobbie Mainoo and Zidane Iqbal all trained with the first team ahead of this game. Jadon Sancho is still a doubt but is getting closer to being match ready. Jack Butland could make his debut for Manchester United or Ten Hag could opt for the current second choice in Tom Heaton or for our regular number one, David de Gea.
Charlton
Midfielder, Sean Clare was suspended against Brighton but is able to be selected for this match. Diallang Jaiyesimi and Mandela Egbo remain out due to injury. Charlton also have an issue between the sticks with Joe Wollacott is out with a fractured finger and Ashley Maynard-Brewer missed the win over Lincoln due to concussion protocols. Chuks Aneke could make the squad but will need assessing due to his current hamstring issue.
Interesting Facts:
- A very famous tie between Manchester United and Charlton occurred in October 1956. United won 4-2 when a certain Bobby Charlton made his debut and scored a brace. The rest is history.
- It has been 16 years since Manchester United have played Charlton and 34 years since their last loss to them.
- Manchester United have only failed to score in three games this season – Brentford (A), Newcastle (H) and Real Sociedad (H).
Predicted XI:
I expect quite a few changes but plenty of first team players in the ranks. Jack Butland is likely to make his debut at Old Trafford with a warm welcome back for Lisandro Martinez expected. Harry Maguire should partner the Argentine at the back with Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia expected to start.
In midfield, the chance for McTominay and Fred to reunite should provide energy and drive in midfield with a chance for Zidane Iqbal to shine as well. Anthony Elanga and Alejandro Garnacho should start in the wide areas while one of Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial will start up front. I would expect the latter who does need a confidence boost in front of goal.
Predicted XI (4-3-3): Butland; Wan-Bissaka, Maguire, Martinez, Malacia; McTominay, Fred, Iqbal; Elanga, Garnacho, Martial
Predicted Score:
United could of course blow Charlton away. They have devastating pace and energy in the team and more than enough competence in possession. It’s just whether they are clinical and creative. I will back a big scoreline with possible cameos from the younger squad members.
United to win 4-0