Manchester United have had a very disappointing start to the season, especially defensively, where the club has struggled this season. Despite trying multiple different combinations, Carrick has yet to find one that replicates the success of last season. 

However, this international break could benefit Carrick. Senne Lammens, who has been a shining light this season, has continued his success for Belgium for the most part during this international break, despite his mistake in the World Cup. 

Leny Yoro excelled on his debut for France against Belgium, with not only the French media raving about his exploits but also manager Zinedine Zidane highly impressed with the young defender. 

While Diogo Dalot has barely featured, Lisandro Martinez has started both games so far, and while Matthijs de Ligt has not been on international duty, he has returned from his long-term injury to start for Manchester United in a friendly against FC Lausanne-Sport.

Since Michael Carrick returned to Manchester United last season, Martinez has been a mainstay in his squad despite small spells away due to knocks and suspensions. However, his fitness of late has improved much compared to his horrid spell between 2023 and 2025, when he barely managed to stay fit for consecutive games.

Despite his improved fitness, it is important that his minutes are managed to ensure he does not relapse into his previous injury or pick up another knock that keeps him out. A fully fit Martinez has shown time and time again how vital he is to the team. 

While he has struggled for form this season, the Argentinian has started both games for his country since the World Cup final loss, in which he left the field injured.

However, according to Argentinian outlet El Debate, Martinez could be rested for this final game, which will be the farewell fixture for Lionel Messi and also Nicolas Otamendi. Lionel Scaloni is reportedly aiming to start as many players from the 2022 World Cup final win as possible, and since Martinez was on the bench for Otamendi that day, it is unsurprising to see him rest. 

The duo of Harry Maguire and Martinez had a lot of success last season during Carrick's interim spell. However, this season both have struggled to replicate the same form. 

On paper, Matthijs de Ligt is the best centre-back at Manchester United given his talent, experience, and the level he showed before his injury. However, as always with de Ligt, it remains to be seen how quickly he can get up to speed and whether he can have a spell without injury. 

While Martinez is arguably the natural partner for him on the left, Ayden Heaven has shown a lot of potential to really challenge the Argentinian. As of yet, he has shown that he is still raw and potentially still just behind the Argentinian.

Leny Yoro is an interesting case. Despite the poor game against Sulemana in his first season, he was superb when given the opportunity in the 24/25 season. His potential is there for all to see, given that Real Madrid also wanted him. However, he has struggled for confidence and minutes since last season, but his inclusion in the France squad and the fact that he made his debut could have given him all the confidence he needed to kick on.