At a Glance
- Manchester United meet Aston Villa at Old Trafford
- Three of Carrick’s troops need to step up
- Champions League qualification is still on the cards
Manchester United host Aston Villa at Old Trafford today (March 15th), and it could have huge implications on the battle for Champions League qualification. Both sides are sitting on 51 points heading into their clash at the Theatre of Dreams.
Michael Carrick’s men are third in the Premier League table, one place ahead of Unai Emery’s visitors, who have an inferior goal difference. Revenge might be on the Reds’ minds following a 2-1 loss to the Villans in the reverse fixture in December.
United were the better side in that game and should have taken at least a point at Villa Park. They head into today’s game as favourites, although a 2-1 loss to 10-man Newcastle United last time out has dampened spirits.
Carrick will be eager for his troops to be at their best, and there are three players who are particularly under pressure to come to the fore.
Bryan Mbeumo
Bryan Mbeumo remains United’s top scorer this season with 10 goals in 25 games across competitions. The Cameroonian forward has been the man for the big occasion, scoring in wins over Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal.
There has been a slight drop in performance levels from the 26-year-old in recent weeks. He was the worst performer in the Reds’ frontline in the defeat to Newcastle at St James’ Park.
With Carrick now trusting Benjamin Sesko to lead the line, it could be Mbeumo who makes way for Amad Diallo. The Ivorian has been the casualty of Sesko’s starting role, losing his place in the XI.
| Bryan Mbeumo (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistics |
| Appearances | 24 |
| Minutes Played | 2,050 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Shots on Target | 29 |
| Yellow Cards | 4 |
| Top Speed | 36.36 km/h |
Diogo Dalot
Diogo Dalot is a full-back, and that much has been clear since Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January. Watching him try to perform the role of a wing-back was a sight for sore eyes at times.
The 26-year-old’s improvement under Carrick deserves more recognition, as he has been back to his best. But there are still some doubts over him continuing as the Reds’ starting right-back next season.
Putting in a decisive display today will help him continue to prove he deserves to be a starter in this United team. He is tasked with keeping Morgan Rogers quiet, and that is some test.
| Diogo Dalot (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistic |
| Appearances | 27 |
| Minutes Played | 2,056 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Tackles Won | 25 |
| Interceptions | 20 |
| Yellow Cards | 5 |
Mason Mount
Mason Mount won’t start United’s clash with Villa, but he’s been included in the matchday squad after returning from injury. The English midfielder’s spell at the Theatre of Dreams has been one of constant fitness troubles, and it’s led to talk of a possible sale this summer.
There is no doubt that the former Chelsea attacker is a talented footballer who can make a difference for the Reds. But he needs to start living up to his £60m price tag or doubts over his future will intensify.
A promising appearance off the bench will be hugely beneficial and help hush speculation about a potential exit. Interestingly, Villa are among the clubs reportedly interested in the 27-year-old, who will have two years left on his contract this summer.
| Mason Mount (Premier League 2025-26) | Statistic |
| Appearances | 17 |
| Minutes Played | 819 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 79% |
| Chances Created | 13 |
| Yellow Cards | 0 |
