Manchester United welcome League One side Barnsley to Old Trafford for their 2024/25 Carabao Cup third-round clash. Despite suffering from defensive injuries, Erik ten Hag’s squad is expected to make several rotations to their starting lineup, but the Premier League giants are still strong favorites to progress to the next round.
Barnsley, currently pushing for promotion in League One, will hope to take advantage of United’s makeshift defense, but the quality gap between the two sides is significant. With United coming off a strong 3-0 victory against Southampton and Barnsley losing 3-0 to Stevenage, this matchup is tipped to favor the home side heavily.
Match Overview
- Location: Old Trafford, Manchester, England
- Date: Tuesday, 17 September 2024
- Kick-Off Time: 20:00 (GMT), 15:00 (ET), 12:00 (PT)
- Referee: Gavin Ward
- Broadcast: Sky Sports in the UK, Paramount+ in the USA, and DAZN in Canada.
Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United will be keen to maintain their impressive domestic cup record, having lifted the Carabao Cup last season. With a successful FA Cup campaign under their belt as well, the Red Devils are experienced in handling these knockout situations. Barnsley, on the other hand, will relish the opportunity to face Premier League opposition, although their form coming into this game suggests they will be up against it.
Manchester United’s Injury Concerns and Expected Rotation
United enter this Carabao Cup tie with a number of defensive absentees. Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui were all forced off during their victory over Southampton, joining Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia on the injury list. While these injuries are a concern, Ten Hag will likely rotate his squad, giving fringe players the chance to impress.
Manuel Ugarte, who came off the bench for his Premier League debut, could be handed his first start for the club, and youngster Dan Gore may feature in midfield. In attack, Alejandro Garnacho and Antony are expected to provide the creative spark, with Casemiro potentially captaining the side from midfield.
Manchester United Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Bayindir; Dalot, Maguire, Evans, Amass; Casemiro, Ugarte; Antony, Zirkzee, Garnacho; Collyer.
Barnsley’s Preparation and Potential Lineup
Barnsley head into this tie after a tough 3-0 defeat to Stevenage, which knocked them out of the play-off spots in League One. However, they will view this match as a free hit, an opportunity to test themselves against one of England’s biggest clubs.
Max Watters and Fabio Jalo returned from injury recently, bolstering Barnsley’s attacking options. Chelsea loanee Gabriel Slonina is expected to start in goal, while Conor Hourihane’s absence will be felt in midfield.
Barnsley Predicted Lineup (5-2-3):
Slonina; Cotter, De Gevigney, Pines, Earl, Lofthouse; Connell, Phillips; Keillor-Dunn, Jalo, Humphreys.
Key Players to Watch
- Alejandro Garnacho (Manchester United): Garnacho is expected to play a key role in this match. The young winger has impressed with his pace and creativity, and he’ll look to exploit Barnsley’s defense.
- Gabriel Slonina (Barnsley): On loan from Chelsea, the highly-rated young goalkeeper will need to be at his best to keep Barnsley in the game. Slonina has shown great potential and this will be a chance for him to showcase his skills on a big stage.
Jambobet Predictions for Man Utd vs Barnsley
When it comes to betting, Jambobet offers key insights for the Carabao Cup third-round tie between Manchester United and Barnsley. Here’s what to expect:
- Who Will Win: Manchester United is heavily favored to win this game. With home advantage and superior quality in attack, United should comfortably dispatch their League One opponents.
Jijenge na Bet Builder ushinde kubwa - Jambobet Prediction: Manchester United to win (2-0).
- Goal-Goal (Both Teams to Score): Barnsley might struggle to break down Manchester United’s defense, even with injuries, so the likelihood of both teams scoring is low. United’s defensive depth, even with rotation, should be enough to keep a clean sheet.
- Jambobet Prediction: No (Goal-Goal).
- Over 2.5 Goals: Despite the predicted scoreline, this game is not expected to be a goal-fest. United’s rotation could affect their attacking fluidity, while Barnsley’s main focus will likely be on defense. A comfortable 2-0 victory for United looks probable.
- Jambobet Prediction: Yes (Over 2.5 Goals).
Head-to-Head Record
Manchester United and Barnsley have met five times in recent years, with United winning three of those encounters. The last time the two sides met was in the League Cup in 2009, where United secured a 2-0 victory.
Last Five Matches:
- Man Utd: 3 wins
- Barnsley: 1 win
- Draws: 1
Match Prediction: Man Utd vs Barnsley
Despite their injury issues, Manchester United should have enough firepower to comfortably overcome Barnsley. Erik ten Hag’s squad rotation provides a chance for fringe players to impress, while Barnsley, though capable of springing surprises, are unlikely to trouble United too much.
Barnsley’s recent form, particularly their 3-0 loss to Stevenage, suggests they’ll struggle to match United’s quality, especially at Old Trafford. Barnsley’s defense will have their hands full dealing with United’s attacking talent, and while they may resist early pressure, the Red Devils are likely to find a breakthrough and control the game from there.
Prediction: Manchester United 2-0 Barnsley
How to Watch the Match
Fans can catch the game live on the following platforms:
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Main Event, Sky Sports Football, Sky Go
- United States: Paramount+
- Canada: DAZN
With a thrilling Carabao Cup campaign ahead, Manchester United will be looking to repeat their success from last season. Barnsley, however, will be hoping for a cup upset, but the odds are certainly stacked against them.
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