Results| Friday 18/09 |
Brentford | 3-0 | Chelsea |
Man United news: Damning stat emerges that fuels Michael Carrick sack calls ahead of vital Fulham Premier League game
Manchester United rank 18th in the Premier League for sprints this season, the newest data has revealed.
The Red Devils suffered an embarrassing exit from the EFL Cup on Wednesday, losing 3-2 to Brighton & Hove Albion at home despite initially taking a 2-0 lead.
United's defeat has sparked concerns about the future of boss Michael Carrick, with some believing that a loss to Fulham on Sunday in the Premier League could lead to his dismissal.
Supporters are keen for the head coach to address the problems in the squad, and many have argued that the players are far too weak without the ball.
Data from Sky Sports evidences those claims, with United ranking 14th in the league for distance covered, 18th for sprints and 19th for high-speed runs.
Michael Carrick future: Will Fulham game cost manager his job?
It should be noted that running less does not necessarily indicate that a team is not willing to work hard or that a team is conditioned poorly - teams with more possession tend to run less - but the Red Devils have undeniably looked weak out of possession.
A similarly poor display against Fulham could be devastating for Carrick given his side's match at Craven Cottage is his side's last before the start of the three-week international break.
Signing off with another disappointing result would leave fans with an overwhelmingly negative feeling that could lead to increased pressure on the head coach.
Carrick would have little grace left amongst the fanbase, and anything other than a sustained period of success in October and November would almost certainly turn the rest of Old Trafford against him.
Will Michael Carrick be sacked by INEOS?
Should Carrick be dismissed, United's part-owners INEOS would further deteriorate their relationship with the fanbase given the head coach would be the third manager sacked since they arrived in December 2023.
The current boss may ultimately prove to not be good enough, but after sacking Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, appointing a fourth head coach in less than three years would signal that there is no clear direction behind the scenes.
INEOS will not stick by Carrick if the club continue to lose, though it would not be surprising if they were hesitant to make a sudden change, even if the fanbase were in favour of a new face in the dugout.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-utd/sack-race/news/look-away-uniteds-damning-data-emerges-as-carrick-faces-crucial-fulham-test_605373.html
INEOS are already looking at replacements as Carrick's position looks dicey ahead of Fulham
Manchester United's start to the new season has been disastrous, and once again, the head coach's position is under threat.
The Red Devils began with a humbling defeat away to newly promoted Hull City. They then failed to hold on to their lead against Everton before the ten men of Manchester City beat them at Old Trafford last week.
The nadir came on Wednesday, as Brighton came back from two goals down to knock them out of the Carabao Cup while completely outplaying them.
Damning statistics have revealed how badly Michael Carrick is getting it wrong on the pitch, and his position is far from secure.
Carrick under immense pressure
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, not everybody within INEOS is on board with keeping the former United midfielder at the helm.
In fact, the co-owners are doing their due diligence in case they need to pull the plug soon.
"Manchester United are doing their DUE DILIGENCE in case they have to MAKE A CHANGE. I'm NOT SURE if there is UNIVERSAL BACKING to be perfectly honest," the reporter told TUS.
This explains why reports of managers available to take over have been doing the rounds recently.
Fulham match is pivotal for Carrick
INEOS are partly to blame as well for yet another poor transfer window, but the axe is likely to fall on Carrick.
Should the 20-time English league champions not win against Fulham at the weekend, alarm bells would be ringing across Old Trafford.
With an international break coming up, United might feel this is the best time to go out there and bring in someone new to stop the rut and save the season.
Hire a new coach, show signs of progress, slump in form, sacked, rinse and repeat. This has been unfolding for many a years now.
The same scenario could be about to play out unless Carrick and his team pull the proverbial rabbit out of the hat on Sunday.
https://thepeoplesperson.com/2026/09/18/ineos-are-already-looking-at-replacements-as-carricks-position-looks-dicey-ahead-of-fulham-316449/
Fulham vs. Man United: Bruno Fernandes record against the Cottagers ahead of key Premier League clash
Manchester United will be aiming to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they head to Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon to tackle Fulham.
Bruno Fernandes will again be key to Man United's chances of picking up a strong result.
The Portugal international has scored three goals and registered one assist in four Premier League appearances for the 20-time English champions this season.
Here, Sports Mole looks at how Fernandes has performed against Fulham during his professional career, as Man United prepare to take on the London club.
Bruno Fernandes record vs. Fulham
Played: 12
Won: 8
Drawn: 2
Lost: 2
Goals: 5
Assists: 3
Fernandes has tackled Fulham on 12 occasions during his time at Man United, boasting a record of eight wins, two draws and two defeats against them, while he has scored five times and registered three assists in matches with the London club.
Ten of his outings against Fulham have come in the Premier League, with his record standing at seven wins, one draw and two defeats, scoring twice and registering three assists.
Fernandes has also faced Fulham twice in the FA Cup, scoring three times, including a brace in a 3-1 success over the Cottagers in the quarter-finals of the 2022-23 tournament.
The attacker also scored in a 1-1 draw in the fifth round of the 2024-25 tournament, with Fulham then winning 5-4 in the resulting penalty shootout.
Fernandes came up with two assists in his last appearance against Fulham, with Man United running out 3-2 winners in the Premier League in February 2026.
The Portuguese has also previously scored against Fulham at Craven Cottage in the Premier League, netting in a 1-0 success for Man United in November 2023.
Fernandes has never lost at Craven Cottage during his professional career.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-utd/feature/bruno-fernandes-record-vs-fulham_605380.html
Sunderland and Fulham have offered €20m for Argentine defender
Sunderland and Fulham have been interested in Parma's Mariano Troilo and have now been given hope of a future move.
The centre-back joined the Italian club in the summer of 2025. In the 2025/26 campaign, he played 21 times in the Serie A and became a regular in the second half of the season.
This led to claims about a move to England. It was suggested that while Fulham were interested, Sunderland had made initial contact for the Argentine.
Troilo stayed at Parma at that point but talk around his future refuses to go away.
Exit could come next summer
ParmaToday note that Troilo has increasingly become a key player for Parma. He has won over manager Carlos Cuesta, who trusts players like Troilo to make an impact.
Tthe manager was key in keeping the centre-back this summer. Sunderland and Fulham offered €20m to sign
him but a decision was made to consider his exit in the summer of 2027.
This choice left many at the club pleased, as they're quite happy with how the player has grown.
His valuation is likely to be around €30m, considering his growth in the last season or so. Parma believe he is key to building the club's modern-day identity and that is why keeping him this year is seen as a sensible choice.
Player will get a big move
Parma have become experts at making major sales. This was seen in the summer. They made big capital gains from the exits of Zion Suzuki, Mateo Pellegrino and Alessandro Circati. This makes Troilo the next in line to leave soon.
The 23-year-old has become a leader at the club and this should be a big positive for both Sunderland and Fulham. He is yet to be fully adept on the ball but is very reliable from a defensive standpoint.
His physical traits make him a good fit for English football, which could make the deal quite exciting.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/sunderland-and-fulham-have-offered-e20m-for-argentine-defender/
Manager forced into 24 hour turnaround on Fulham man – Looked out, now he's in
Football often moves quickly and for Fulham midfielder Hugo Larsson, that's certainly been the case this week.
Just yesterday we were reporting that he was being left out of the Sweden squad for the international break.
We had comments from Sweden manager Graham Potter and everything, explaining his decision, insisting it was his decision and telling the 22-year-old what he needed to do to get back into the squad in future.
"In Hugo's case, it's a matter of me sticking with the same midfielders," he said about the Fulham man.
"Hugo has made a big move and hasn't played that much football. It's important for him to adapt to a new league and a new club."
Potter even insisted that there are "logical explanations" for Larsson and Williot Svanberg being left out of the squad.
"There's nothing negative about them; we've simply chosen other players. That's part of football. I'm sure they're disappointed. It is entirely my decision," he added.
24 hours later, though, and it seems all of that can be disregarded.
Larsson is back in the Sweden squad, thanks to an injury to Mattias Svanberg. Sweden confirmed his inclusion in an announcement today.
"Wolfsburg midfielder Mattias Svanberg had been selected for the squad, but it has now been confirmed that a minor injury will prevent him from participating," it reads.
"Head coach Graham Potter has chosen to call up Hugo Larsson as a replacement."
Does he want him?
So, there you go, 24 hours after being out of the picture, Larsson is now very much back in the picture.
He'll now be a part of the squad convening on Monday before taking on Romania, Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Romania again during the extended international break.
Whether he features, remains to be seen. Potter didn't seem all that keen on the Fulham man yesterday, and has clearly turned to him last minute, through necessity rather than desire.
In other Swedish national team news, the country have unveiled a new mascot. A moose, named Nick.
https://sportwitness.co.uk/manager-forced-into-24-hour-turnaround-on-fulham-man-looked-out-now-hes-in/
'Who does he go to?' - The big question surrounding Fulham wonderkid Josh King as Bobby Zamora talks up teenager amid Arsenal, Liverpool & Borussia Dortmund links
Josh King continues to attract plenty of admiring glances, with former Fulham striker Bobby Zamora admitting to GOAL that "who does he go to" has become the biggest question when it comes to the talented teenager. Wonderkid status has been established in west London, on the back of a senior breakthrough, and leading clubs from across Europe are already said to be queuing up.
European giants closely monitoring King's progress
No formal approaches have been made as yet, with King fully focused on and committed to events at Craven Cottage. He is tied to terms in his current surroundings through to the summer of 2029.
Fulham will be eager to see a product of their academy system stick around much longer than that, but retaining his services on a long-term basis could prove tricky. That is because prospects of such potential will inevitably generate interest from afar.
There has been talk of Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund all keeping a close eye on King's development. At just 19 years of age, he has already passed 50 competitive appearances, opened his goal account in the Premier League and trained with the full England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Is it inevitable that King completes a big-money transfer?
Asked if there is an air of inevitability when it comes to a big-money transfer in future windows, ex-Fulham star Zamora - who was speaking in association with BetWright Premier League betting - told GOAL: "I think so.
"Another one that I watched in the Chelsea game at Fulham and he's just a great talent. He's a fantastic talent. Again, 19 years of age and doesn't fear receiving the ball, wants the ball, wants to be in these positions, wants to create chances, wants to score goals.
"Obviously England taking him and putting him in the squad does his confidence the world of good as well and I think he'll only thrive and another fantastic talent to keep an eye on for sure.
"It's who does he go to? Lately I've seen a lot of stars leaving the Premier League, which I don't like. I want the best players and certainly the English boys to be playing in England. The issue is that the English boys are normally priced out or demand a little bit more money, which is a little bit upsetting because I'd love to see all the English boys playing in the Premier League."
What King has said about his hopes for the future
The Cottagers should have nothing to fear for now, with King having previously told Standard Sport when asked if he feels a sense of loyalty to the club that gave him his big break: "100 per cent. I owe a lot to Fulham. My first home is... where I live, but Fulham is my second home. This is my school. It has a special place in my heart."
He added on his more immediate ambition: "I'm not a [first-team] leader yet, but I would love to be one in the future. It's definitely something that's on my radar. Whether that happens at Fulham or at England, it would be incredible.
"I'm never going to say I'm ready for that responsibility. A long, long way to go, but to be a club legend and to be in a leadership group here would be a dream for me. Leading by my actions is the best way."
Home-grown superstar will prove difficult to retain
Talk of becoming a "club legend" will be music to the ears of Fulham supporters, as they are understandably keen to cheer on a home-grown star for as long as possible. They are, however, fully aware that money talks in modern football.
If huge offers were to be tabled at some stage, then the Cottagers would find it difficult to turn a deaf ear and blind eye to any talks. King is very much part of present plans on the banks of the Thames, but it remains to be seen what the future will bring.
https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/big-question-fulham-wonderkid-josh-king-bobby-zamora-arsenal-liverpool-borussia-dortmund/blt3261a22d1b248358?utm_id=fa3iys5y8hyz9ezk&utm_source_platform=newsnow
Preview: Fulham vs Manchester United - prediction, team news, lineups
Slowly sleepwalking into an all-too familiar autumnal crisis, Manchester United desperately seek to avoid a third straight defeat in all competitions in Sunday's Premier League bottom-half battle with Fulham at Craven Cottage.
The Red Devils suffered a catastrophic collapse in their 3-2 EFL Cup loss to Brighton & Hove Albion in midweek, while the hosts coincidentally edged out West Ham United by the same scoreline.
Match preview
After becoming the victims of one of the most calamitous VAR decisions in Premier League history, Man United were simply the victims of their own self-inflicted downfall on Wednesday night, which left the under-pressure Carrick cutting a "beaten" figure.
For the first time in half a century - before the head coach was even born - Man United lost at Old Trafford after taking a two-goal lead, surrendering a healthy advantage to Brighton a year on from their embarrassing Grimsby Town elimination.
While Red Devils fans could rightly point fingers at the officiating team in their Manchester derby defeat - albeit as well as their 11 men who could not break down 10 men - Wednesday's woeful effort was all on Carrick and his crop, who have also won just one of their four Premier League games so far in 2026-27.
Furthermore, only one of the visitors' six showdowns in all tournaments this season has seen Carrick's men keep a clean sheet - their 4-0 Champions League crushing of Sabah - and Man United have conceded at least twice in four of their other five fixtures.
That sorry sequence includes both of their Premier League road trips so far to Hull City (2-0) and Everton (2-2), meaning Man United could fail to win their first three top-flight away games in a single season for the second year running.
As Carrick's future comes under more scrutiny, his opposite number Alvaro Arbeloa is the bookies' second-favourite to be the first Premier League manager to lose his job this season, only behind the Red Devils boss himself.
Thus far unable to carry on the stellar work of Marco Silva, Arbeloa has collected a paltry one point from his first four Premier League matches, although that did arrive in an incredibly hard-fought goalless draw with Liverpool in gameweek four.
There was a tinge of black and white disappointment at Fulham not heading home with their first win of the season, after Jeremy Jacquet cleared Gonzalo Garcia's effort off the line, but shutting out Liverpool at Anfield after shipping seven in their first three Premier League games of the season represents a marked improvement.
The Cottagers' defensive deficiencies reared their ugly heads again in midweek, but to minimal effect as Arbeloa's men reached the fourth round of the EFL Cup with a chaotic 3-2 triumph over West Ham United, courtesy of Oscar Bobb's 78th-minute winner.
However, Fulham took just one point from six on offer against Man Utd in the 2025-26 Premier League, and the Red Devils are unbeaten in 10 consecutive trips to Craven Cottage since a shock 3-0 reverse in December 2009.
Fulham Premier League form:
L L L D
Fulham form (all competitions):
L W L L D W
Manchester United Premier League form:
L W D L
Manchester United form (all competitions):
L W D W L L
Team News
Man United trio Manuel Ugarte (knee), Tom Heaton (thigh), Matthijs de Ligt (back) and Amad Diallo (ankle) are all missing until after the international break, but neither Luke Shaw nor Carlos Baleba (ankle) have been completely ruled out of the fixture.
The latter missed the defeats to Man City and Brighton with a minor thigh problem, albeit one which Carrick affirmed would only take a matter of days to resolve, so there is every chance he will return over Noussair Mazraoui.
Senne Lammens, Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes will be among those to return after being dropped to the bench in midweek, as Shea Lacey and Mason Mount make way despite finding the net in that loss.
Fulham boss Arbeloa is also dealing with full-back concerns, as Kenny Tete is out due to concussion protocol after taking a ball to the face at Anfield last weekend.
Tete joins Tom Cairney (knee) as one of Fulham's two confirmed absentees for gameweek five, but Ryan Sessegnon is on the verge of returning from a groin problem and will undergo a late fitness test.
Despite managing a goal and assist at the London Stadium, Cesar Palacios should be one of a few EFL Cup starters axed from the XI, as Arbeloa reverts to the side that gave Liverpool an excellent run for their money.
Fulham possible starting lineup:
Leno; Castagne, Affengruber, Bassey, Robinson; Berge, Charles; Bobb, King, Iwobi; Garcia
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Mainoo, Tielemans; Mbeumo, Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko
We say: Fulham 1-2 Manchester United
Back-to-back losses for Man Utd is disappointing enough, but the manner of such losses - against 10 men and a two-goal collapse - have only heightened concerns about Carrick's Red Devils in the long-term.
However, the visitors still have the attacking weapons to trouble a porous Fulham backline, and we have faith in Man United to nip Fulham's brief revival in the bud.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/man-utd/preview/fulham-vs-man-utd-prediction-team-news-lineups_605390.html
Transfer news: £26m-rated Sunderland and Fulham target could be in line for 2027 sale
Sunderland have been credited with an interest in Parma defender Mariano Troilo
Mooted Sunderland and Fulham transfer target Mariano Troilo could be granted an exit from current club Parma next summer in a potential boost to both Premier League clubs, according to reports in Italy.
The Argentine centre-back moved to the Serie A outfit from boyhood side Belgrano in 2025, and has since established himself as a key figure under manager Carlos Cuesta. So far this season, he has started all four of Parma's league outings, as well as making an appearance in the Italian Cup.
It is within this context that Troilo has been touted as a possible option for both Sunderland and Fulham, with both English teams reportedly monitoring his progress of late. Indeed, according to an update from ParmaToday, the pair tested his current employers' resolve with respective bids of around £17.2 million this summer, but were unable to prise him away from Stadio Ennio Tardini.
As per ParmaToday's report, however, Parma chiefs are pleased with the South American's development, and could consequently look to sell him for a sizeable fee at the end of the current campaign. The Italian side have garnered something of a reputation for securing healthy profits on their best and brightest talents in recent times, having sold the likes of Japanese international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to Aston Villa for around £30 million back in August.
For his part, Troilo is touted to fetch somewhere in the region of £25.8 million, with Parma said to be pleased that they held off on cashing in on a player who continues to improve steadily.
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/sunderland-transfer-news-9088894
Fulham vs Man Utd Prediction: Premier League Preview
We look ahead to Sunday's Premier League clash with our Fulham vs Man Utd prediction and preview. Can Michael Carrick ease the mounting pressure?
Fulham vs Man Utd: The Key Stats
The Opta supercomputer makes Manchester United favourites ahead of kick-off, with a win probability of 48.3% to Fulham's 27.5%.
Man Utd have lost only one of their last 21 Premier League matches against Fulham (W16 D4) – a 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford in February 2024.
Fulham are enduring their longest winless start to a league season (D1 L3) since 2020-21, when they lost their opening six matches.
Fulham will aim to record their first Premier League win this season and pile further pressure on Michael Carrick when Álvaro Arbeloa's side welcome Manchester United to Craven Cottage on Sunday.
The Whites have failed to win any of their first four league matches and sit in 18th place, though they did earn their first point last weekend with a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Liverpool.
A dramatic opening-weekend defeat to Chelsea was followed by losses to Sunderland and Crystal Palace, before Arbeloa's men held firm at Anfield last time out.
Despite that decent point at Liverpool, this is Fulham's longest winless start to a league season since 2020-21, when they failed to win any of their opening six matches.
There is cause for optimism, though. Fulham followed up their draw at Liverpool with a 3-2 victory at West Ham in the third round of the EFL Cup on Wednesday to further boost confidence ahead of Sunday's clash.
(https://theanalyst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/west-ham-v-fulham-stats-2026-27-2048x1536.jpeg)
Man Utd, meanwhile, have blown hot and cold this season. They opened their campaign with just four points from games against Hull City, Ipswich Town and Everton, before suffering a controversial 1-0 derby loss to 10-man Manchester City last weekend.
Phil Foden's first-half red card handed the Red Devils a major advantage, but they could not capitalise and were eventually punished by a contentious Erling Haaland goal that has dominated the discourse ever since.
To make matters worse, United fell to a 3-2 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion in the third round of the EFL Cup on Wednesday despite taking a 2-0 lead inside the opening 10 minutes. It was the first time United had lost a home game in any competition having held a half-time lead (2-1) since May 1984 against Ipswich.
Carrick will know his side must respond quickly. Their total of four points from the opening Premier League matchdays (W1 D1 L2) is their joint fewest at this stage of a season, along with 1992-93 and 2025-26.
On both of those occasions, though, they recovered strongly, finishing as champions in 1992-93 and third in 2025-26. That will offer some encouragement.
While results may not necessarily reflect it, United have started the campaign in pretty good attacking form. They have attempted 84 shots, more than any other team in the division and United's highest total at this stage of a season on record since 2003-04.
Those shots equate to 8.3 expected goals (xG), with only Brighton (10.2) generating more across the first four matchdays.
(https://theanalyst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/man-utd-xg-after-4-pl-games-2026-27-2048x1536.jpeg)
Aside from a fairly timid display against City last Sunday, United have been creating plenty in the final third. Perhaps, then, Carrick's side have been a little unlucky to only have four points.
However, it's been the opposite story for Fulham.
They have failed to score in 10 Premier League outings this year, more than any other side. At 42%, it's the highest proportion of matches in which they've drawn a blank (10/24) in a calendar year since 2010 (also 42%; 16/38).
Arbeloa will, however, benefit from having nearly a full squad available as he looks to help Fulham turn a corner, with Ryan Sessegnon likely to return after a pelvic injury kept him out of the draw with Liverpool.
For United, Matthijs de Ligt, Amad Diallo and Manuel Ugarte remain the confirmed absentees, though Carlos Baleba could potentially make his debut and Luke Shaw might be in line to return after missing the last three games. If he does feature at Craven Cottage, it will be his 300th Premier League appearance.
Fulham vs Man Utd Head-to-Head
Fulham will be up against it on Sunday, having failed to win any of their last 10 Premier League home games against Manchester United (D2 L8), a run that dates back to a pair of consecutive victories over them at Craven Cottage in 2009.
United should be the more confident side, having lost just one of their last 21 Premier League meetings with Fulham (W16 D4), falling to a 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford in February 2024.
Carrick's side will take further belief from edging out a dramatic 3-2 victory in their last meeting with Fulham, when Benjamin Sesko netted a 94th-minute winner at Old Trafford in February.
(https://theanalyst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/man-utd-v-fulham-xg-race-2025-26-2048x1152.jpeg)
Fulham vs Man Utd Prediction
Manchester United may have endured a mixed start to the season, but the Opta supercomputer still gives them a 48.3% chance of taking all three points in west London.
Fulham, meanwhile, came out on top in 27.5% of the supercomputer's 10,000 pre-match simulations. A draw made up the remaining 24.2%.
(https://theanalyst.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/fulham-v-man-utd-opta-prediction.png)
Fulham vs Man Utd Predicted Lineups
Fulham: Bernd Leno, Timothy Castagne, David Affengruber, Calvin Bassey, Antonee Robinson, Sander Berge, Shea Charles, Josh King, Oscar Bobb, Alex Iwobi, Gonzalo García.
Head Coach: Álvaro Arbeloa
Manchester United: Senne Lammens, Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martínez, Patrick Dorgu, Kobbie Mainoo, Youri Tielemans, Bruno Fernandes, Bryan Mbeumo, Marcus Rashford, Matheus Cunha.
Head Coach: Michael Carrick
Opta Power Rankings
The Opta Power Rankings are a global team ranking system that assigns an ability score to over 16,000 domestic football teams on a scale between zero and 100, where zero is the worst-ranked team in the world, and 100 is the best team in the world.
https://theanalyst.com/articles/fulham-vs-man-utd-prediction-premier-league-09-2026
Kingy: Upwards trajectory
Josh King was delighted with the improvement shown by Fulham in our most recent Premier League outing, and believe his side are on "an upwards trajectory" heading into Sunday's clash with Manchester United.
Despite impressive attacking showings against Chelsea and Crystal Palace, the Whites remained pointless going into last week, but an organised display away to Liverpool earned a richly deserved draw, and clean sheet.
"The week before that game, we worked really hard," Kingy explained. "While we'd been really good going forward in the first three games of the season, we maybe were a little bit more open to transitions and counter attacks from oppositions.
"So we worked a lot on our defensive side and just tried to shore that up a little bit, and I think we were a bit more structured against Liverpool, and they just found it hard to break us down.
"And then for ourselves, we had chances and could have won the game, including some of my own to be fair.
"It was a really promising game, and I think if you asked any team if they'd take a draw away at Anfield, clean sheet, you're going to take it. So we were happy with it, and for sure it's helped with the mood in the camp, just helps us to get that momentum."
It's been a fantastic start to the campaign for the England Under-21 international, with three goal involvements in his five outings so far putting him well on course to achieve some of the targets he set himself before a ball was kicked.
"At the start of the season, I said to myself that I want to get 10 goals and assists," he revealed. "Start with something that I think is achievable, and then anything above that is a bonus, and I'll just keep kicking on.
"It's been really good so far. On a personal note, it's been a really good start to the season. I spoke a lot about last season, trying to get my numbers up and scoring and contributing to the team, so I think that's been brilliant for me.
"As a team, it's been a hard start in terms of getting points, but I think our performances have warranted more than we've got. We're obviously getting used to a new system, new manager, so I think it's been really good, and we're looking forward to the rest of the season."
Our final game before the international break has the potential to be box office, with United arriving at the Cottage for Super Sunday.
Asked what it would mean to get our first Premier League victory in that one, King said: "Yeah of course, it would be massive.
"As people have seen, we're starting to improve and get that balance about the team, and I think there's only really an upwards trajectory for us as a team.
"In terms of that fixture, obviously playing against a team like Man United, with such a big fanbase and stuff, it's an incredible game to be a part of, and I hope we can do the fans proud and put up a really good test, and hopefully get the three points."
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/september/17/josh-king-upwards-trajectory/
Team News: Concussion rules Tete out, but Sess could return
Álvaro Arbeloa will be without Tom Cairney and Kenny Tete for the meeting with Manchester United, but Ryan Sessegnon has a chance of making the squad.
With Cairney still on the mend after surgery and Tete suffering a concussion against Liverpool, Sessegnon's potential return comes as welcome news.
"Tom is still recovering," Arbeloa confirmed in press. "Tete won't be available, after the ball hit him in the Anfield game.
"We need to see if Sess is available for Sunday. I think he will be training with us today, and we will have to make a decision later."
With a much-changed Fulham impressing against West Ham United on Tuesday, our Head Coach was asked if any of the players have put themselves in contention for the weekend.
"I think all of them. All of them did their job, they play very well, and they made a very good effort.
"You see how César Palacios played, Kevin tried his best playing on the right, Hugo's first game here with our shirt, the two centre-backs, Reedy, Ems – I'm so happy with all of them, because it's not easy when you are waiting for opportunity and you are not playing.
"When the opportunity comes, you need to give your best, but you are not playing every week, so it's not that easy for them. But the way that they play and the energy that they put in the game, I'm really proud of them.
"Obviously, Rodrigo scored a goal. I think he has scored more goals in five games this season than the entire season last year. I'm so happy for all of them."
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/september/18/team-news-concussion-rules-tete-out-but-sessegnon-could-return/
Pre-Man Utd Press Conference
Álvaro Arbeloa knows Fulham will need to maintain recent levels if we're to get a positive result against Manchester United on Sunday.
A goalless draw at Anfield, followed by progression in the Carabao Cup from a testing fixture, has lifted the mood at Motspur Park going into our final game before the international break.
"It's obviously important winning games," Arbeloa acknowledged. "I think it's the most important thing, and we have been talking for the last two or three weeks how important winning games is, even when you are doing a lot of things very well, you need to get points. And after that victory against West Ham, I think it has been a good week for us.
"And now we are preparing for the game against Man United, and we are still believing that we can beat them, if we do a very good match from the first minute, and we know that we have to play at our best level – same level that we saw at Anfield – and that's our target."
It's been a less rosy week for United, who exited the Carabao Cup after squandering a two-goal lead, a result which came after a controversial defeat in the Manchester derby.
But Arbeloa laughed off any notions that this could be a good time to face Michael Carrick's men.
"When I see the players that they have, you can see they can win the game in one second," he stated. "[Marcus] Rashford, [Matheus] Cunha, Bruno [Fernandes], [Youri] Tielemans, even the full-backs, they like to go forward.
"They have very talented and top players and, of course, they are Man United, so you know what it means, and like I said before, if we want to beat them – and we believe that we can beat them – we need to play at the very high level that we did at Anfield for 90 minutes.
"And even doing that, we couldn't beat Liverpool, we couldn't beat Chelsea, and I think in both games, we did really well. So, we are facing one of the best teams in the world, we know that, and we need to be ready."
Asked what it would mean to get that first Premier League win at the weekend, Arbeloa replied: "I think it will be so important. Not for me – for my team, for my players. I think I am not the important one here.
"Fulham is important, and I think our supporters deserve one victory against Man United. I know that is so difficult, and the last time that we beat them here at Craven Cottage was too many years ago, so we will give our best and try to give them a victory."
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/september/18/pre-man-utd-press-conference/
Eric Chelle monitored Fulham's Nwoko, contacted Iwobi before call-up for friendly against Russia
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle contacted Alex Iwobi before deciding to include Fulham midfielder Chibby Nwoko in Nigeria's squad for the international friendly against Russia, allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report.
Nwoko has received his first Nigeria call-up for the October 6 friendly in Nizhny Novgorod, and it is confirmed that the Fulham starlet has accepted the invitation to link up with the national team in the coming days.
The left-footed midfielder, who has three caps for England U18s, is keen to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria after previous attempts to secure call-ups to the Flying Eagles and Olympic Eagles failed to materialise.
Nwoko still has some documentation to sort out following the expiry of his Nigerian passport.
The 20-year-old is expected to begin the process of obtaining a new one, including securing a National Identification Number, with efforts being made to fast-track the process.
However, the passport situation will not prevent him from featuring against Russia as the October 6 fixture is a friendly.
Chelle's decision to invite Nwoko followed his monitoring of the midfielder's progress at Craven Cottage.
The Nigeria coach also contacted Iwobi and asked the Super Eagles star for his assessment of Nwoko, with the Fulham ace speaking highly of the academy graduate.
Chelle subsequently watched Nwoko make his Fulham first team debut, where he played 22 minutes against AFC Wimbledon on August 27th, and was impressed by his performance.
The Malian tactician considered naming Nwoko in the squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau but wants clarity on whether the midfielder made any competitive appearances for England's youth teams.
The Nigerian Federation is understood to be seeking clarification from Fifa on Nwoko's eligibility, with the situation bearing similarities to that of Wrexham loanee Arthur Okonkwo, who played only friendly matches for England's youth teams before a change of sporting nationality.
Abia State, through his father.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/eric-chelle-monitored-fulhams-nwoko-contacted-iwobi-before-call-up-for-friendly-against-russia
Alvaro Arbeloa confirms Fulham injury latest before Manchester United clash
Fulham host Manchester United in the final Premier League fixture before the extended international break
Fulham will be without two senior players against Manchester United this weekend, but Ryan Sessegnon could return.
Alvaro Arbeloa's side are still searching for a first Premier League win of the season as they prepare to host the Red Devils at Craven Cottage on Sunday afternoon.
Though, of the two teams, Fulham should be in better spirts having held Liverpool to a goalless draw and then beating West Ham in the Carabao Cup over the past week.
Arbeloa made nine changes to the team that started at Anfield for the cup tie and is expected to recall the likes of Bernd Leno, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Gonzalo Garcia for the visit of Man United.
However, Kenny Tete will play no part as per concussion protocols, thus joining captain Tom Cairney on the sidelines, while a late decision will be made on Sessesgnon who has missed the last two games with a groin issue.
"Tom is still recovering," Arbeloa said in the pre-match press conference. "Tete won't be available, after the ball hit him in the Anfield game.
"We need to see if Sess is available for Sunday. I think he will be training with us today, and we will have to make a decision later."
"I think all of them. All of them did their job, they play very well, and they made a very good effort," Arbeloa said of the players who came in against the Hammers.
"You see how Cesar Palacios played, Kevin tried his best playing on the right, Hugo's first game here with our shirt, the two centre-backs, Reedy, Ems – I'm so happy with all of them, because it's not easy when you are waiting for opportunity and you are not playing.
"When the opportunity comes, you need to give your best, but you are not playing every week, so it's not that easy for them. But the way that they play and the energy that they put in the game, I'm really proud of them.
"Obviously, Rodrigo scored a goal. I think he has scored more goals in five games this season than the entire season last year. I'm so happy for all of them."
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/arbeola-fulham-injury-latest-man-utd-sessegnon-b1297522.html
Cottage Tactico: Man Utd's remodelled midfield
For most of my childhood, Manchester United were dominant. For most of my adult life, Manchester United have seemed to be either in the midst of - or trying to recover from - a period of crisis. After a tough week, there are some reasons to think they visit the Cottage on Sunday on the cusp of another one.
A constant throughout both eras, though, has been a style of football that looks most threatening on the counter attack, showcasing players who catch the eye when playing quickly. It's almost a cliché to say the modern Manchester United are good on the break and struggle to control games. But it's also true.
Since the start of last season, United have played 10 games in which they've had 40% or less of the ball. They've won them all. In the 20 games played where they've had over 55% of possession, they've won seven, drawn seven and lost six.
So, why do their team still exhibit these tendencies? What has Michael Carrick tried to do with that in mind? And how will it impact our game this Sunday?
ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK
Be it through the direct passing of someone like Bruno Fernandes, or the direct running of a succession of speedy attackers who like to break into big space, United have shown time and again that they can be deadly when allowed to play in transition.
However, as Premier League teams have wised up to this and increasingly deployed watertight out-of-possession plans, Man Utd have been challenged to break down stubborn blocks with plenty of the ball.
Admittedly, as their four fixtures include two newly promoted teams and a Man City side reduced to 10 men, the sample is skewed, but so far this season Carrick's men have had 60.5% of possession, with only City themselves and Brighton averaging more. Whether it is by design or simply because teams force them to, United need to try and win games with the ball more reliably.
Carrick's setup seems to have this in mind. On the ball, United tend to form a 3-2-5 or 3-1-6, with the FBs taking turns to either support play or advance. And, crucially, you'll often see them set up little rondo-like moments with a group of players passing the ball in small spaces in quick succession. This looks to draw in defenders and engineer that big space we have noted their attackers thrive in outside of increasingly rare counter attacking scenarios.
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That desire to play through pressure in tight combinations can lead to them heavily overload whichever side of the pitch they are playing down, offering isolated space for two men on the other side of the pitch. They can also overload centrally to open up opportunities for both of their wide forwards to make runs.
However, when teams don't bite and instead sit off, this space doesn't emerge. And in those scenarios the direct instincts of the likes of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Marcus Rashford aren't as well suited to patient patterns camped out on the edge of their opponents' box. As a result, their dangerman Bruno Fernandes can grow frustrated and try too hard to force the play when quick chances do not materialise.
Similarly, when Benjamin Sesko isn't on the pitch, a lack of reliable box presence means resorting to crosses isn't a reliable route to goal, either. I thought Carrick would have acted earlier in bringing on Sesko for Cunha last week, and will be interested to see who gets the nod from the start at the Cottage.
Midfield remodelling
Whenever I've talked to frustrated fans of the club in recent years, a constant complaint tends to come up: 'United need a midfield rebuild.' Carrick retired from football in 2018. Some eight years later he is the man in the dugout overseeing the latest attempt to rebuild that midfield since his own departure.
He seems to have identified the need for small space technicians who have often been lacking in United's setup. Carrick's first instinct when taking over was to reverse Ruben Amorim's decision to permanently bench exactly the profile of midfielder United have coveted for years in Kobbie Mainoo, who has taken a leap forward in both progressive passing and carrying.
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Interestingly, the first two midfield recruits to join him this summer share elements of his profile. Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos offer a similar desire to progress through tight space. This new midfield should suit some of Carrick's preferences in possession. They fit in nicely to those rondo-like moments we noted earlier, and in theory offer some control and craft breaking sides down.
However, as Fulham fans remember all too well from the Marco Silva era, when teams sit off you in a low block and high quality chances aren't flowing, there is a tendency to overcommit. And none of Tielemans, Santos or Mainoo really suit eating up vast space to put out fires going the other way.
Presumably that is the thinking behind the signing of Carlos Baleba. However, with him not featuring thus far this season, there might be opportunities for Fulham if they turnover the ball. That said, Carrick has said his new signing has a chance of making his debut on Sunday.
Same old story at the back
United have done something quite unusual in recent transfer windows. They've upgraded one area of the pitch at a time. Last season it was the attack, with Mbeumo, Cunha and Sesko. This season, as noted, it has been the midfield.
But that does mean their first choice defence of Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot is made up of players bought by Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Erik ten Hag.
Going forward, the FBs can lack dynamism and reliable final third quality, despite often being the free players holding width outside narrow opposition blocks. And from a purely defensive standpoint, there have been some moments of strife at the back.
However, there are some wider reasons why that defence find themselves dealing with more high jeopardy moments than most.
A breakdown of United's running stats hints at an issue. Whilst the side rank towards the top of the league in high intensity stats on the ball, they are solidly at the bottom of it when it comes to running out of possession.
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Sometimes, Carrick's side seem caught between a desire to press and a desire to sit off in a mid block to open up space behind the opposition defence. And that inconsistent press, coupled with players who seem to struggle to get back urgently after losing it high up the pitch, can leave their CBs exposed.
Whilst Maguire is dominant in the air and Martinez is among the best passing CBs in the league, neither suit defending big space. Fulham will surely look to create such moments this weekend.
The key: Kobbie Mainoo
Every time I watch Man Utd, I tend to end up just watching Kobbie Mainoo pull the strings in the middle of the park and questioning how he was ignored by Amorim for most of last season.
Mainoo's passing and carrying has become the key source of tempo for this United team, and it is clear the new manager's trust in him is being rewarded.
Carrick has been in charge of 21 Premier League games since returning to Old Trafford. Mainoo has started 19 of them. On the two occasions he hasn't - Leeds (A) and Hull City (A) - United lost. That's the same number they've lost in the 19 Mainoo started, one of which was last week's derby.
The views, opinions, and/or recommendations expressed in this article are attributed to the author of Cottage Tactico and not necessarily Fulham FC. You can read more of Kish Koria's tactical takes on FFC on X and across social media, @CottageTactico.
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/september/18/cottage-tactico-man-uts-remodelled-midfield/
Preview: Fulham v United; A must-win match for United and Carrick; The players need to step up and show some fight!
Fulham -v- Manchester United
Premier League
Craven Cottage, London
Sunday 20th September 2026; KO 16:30 BST
Live in the United Kingdom on Sky Sports Premier League
Sunday's Premier League clash between Manchester United and Fulham already feels like a pivotal moment in United's season. After back-to-back defeats, the pressure is mounting on both the players and head coach Michael Carrick ahead of a fixture the Reds simply cannot afford to lose.
Last weekend's 1-0 defeat to Manchester City left many United supporters frustrated, with controversy surrounding key decisions during the match. Any hope of an immediate response was then shattered in midweek when United crashed out of the Carabao Cup against Brighton & Hove Albion, surrendering a 2-0 lead before eventually losing 3-2.
Those results have intensified scrutiny on Carrick. While he remains a popular figure among supporters, football is ultimately a results-driven business, and United's inconsistent performances have left serious questions about the team's mentality, organisation and ability to manage games.
However, responsibility should not rest solely with the manager. Jason Wilcox also deserves greater scrutiny for United's struggles this season. Recruitment decisions, squad planning and the overall football structure have all contributed to the current situation. If results continue to disappoint, accountability must extend beyond the dugout and into the boardroom.
Against a Fulham side searching for consistency themselves, United need more than just three points on Sunday. They need a performance that restores confidence, lifts the mood around Old Trafford and relieves some of the growing pressure surrounding the club. Anything less will only increase the scrutiny on both Carrick and the football leadership above him.
How can United beat Fulham?
United's route to victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage is likely to be built around three key areas.
1. Exploit Fulham's full-back areas
Fulham are usually at their best when they can control possession and get their wide players into dangerous positions. However, they can leave space behind their advancing full-backs. Reports ahead of the game suggest Fulham may still be without natural left-back Antonee Robinson, which could create opportunities down United's right flank.
If Michael Carrick starts Bryan Mbeumo on the right and encourages overlapping runs from the wing-back, United can force Fulham's defence into uncomfortable one-v-one situations.
2. Let Cunha drive transitions
One of the positives from United's recent performance against Arsenal was the threat created by Matheus Cunha's direct running. Despite the defeat, United generated chances and looked far more dynamic in attack than they often did last season.
Fulham's centre-backs are strong physically, but Cunha's ability to receive between the lines, turn and carry the ball could be the biggest weapon in transition. The quicker United move the ball into him after regaining possession, the better.
3. Stop Fulham's creators
Fulham's biggest threat often comes from the likes of Gonzalo Garcia, Cesar Palacios and Rodrigo Muniz finding pockets of space behind the midfield. When Fulham struggle creatively, their attack can become predictable.
United need:
Aggressive pressing from the front.
A disciplined midfield screen.
To prevent Pereira from dictating play between the lines.
If United force Fulham into crossing from deeper areas rather than creating central combinations, they'll significantly reduce the home side's threat.
Tactical prediction
I think Carrick's best setup is:
High pressing in the opening 20 minutes.
Fast transitions through Cunha and Mbeumo.
Wing-backs providing width rather than overloading the centre.
Avoiding an open end-to-end match, which tends to suit Fulham at home.
If United recreate the attacking intensity they showed against Arsenal but finish their chances more clinically, they'll have a strong chance of leaving Craven Cottage with all three points.
Manchester United Last Six Results: LLWDWL
United's last six matches have produced mixed results, highlighting both attacking promise and defensive concerns. The run began with a 2-0 defeat away to Hull City, before United responded impressively with a 5-2 victory over Ipswich Town. A hard-fought 2-2 draw at Everton followed, showing resilience despite dropping points.
In Europe, United delivered one of their best performances of the season, cruising to a 4-0 win over Sabah FK in the Champions League. However, domestic frustrations quickly returned with a narrow 1-0 home defeat to rivals Manchester City. Their most recent outing ended in a 3-2 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup, despite scoring twice.
Overall, United have won two, drawn one and lost three of their last six matches. While the team has scored 15 goals during that period, defensive inconsistency has prevented them from building momentum and turning promising performances into a stronger run of results.
Fulham Last Six Results: WDLLWL
Fulham's last six matches have delivered a mixture of disappointment and encouragement. Their run began with a narrow 3-2 home defeat to Chelsea, followed by a convincing 3-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup. A 1-0 loss away to Sunderland then left Marco Silva's side searching for consistency.
Back at Craven Cottage, Fulham were beaten 3-2 by Crystal Palace despite finding the net twice. However, they showed resilience by earning a goalless draw away to Liverpool, a result that demonstrated their defensive organisation against one of the league's strongest teams.
Their most recent fixture brought a welcome boost, as Fulham edged past West Ham United 3-2 in the Carabao Cup to progress in the competition.
Overall, Fulham's last six matches have produced two wins, one draw and three defeats. While goals have not been a problem, with 11 scored across those games, improving defensive consistency will be crucial if they are to climb the Premier League table and build momentum.
Manchester United Team News
Ruled Out: Matthijs de Ligt, Manuel Ugarte, Amad
Doubts: Tom Heaton, Luke Shaw, Carlos Baleba
Fulham Team News
Ruled Out: Tom Cairney
Doubts: Ryan Sessegnon, Kenny Tete
How have United done against Fulham in the Premier League?
United have historically enjoyed a dominant record against Fulham in the Premier League. Since Fulham's promotion to the top flight in 2001, the two clubs have met 37 times in the competition, with United winning 26 matches, drawing seven and losing only four.
The first Premier League meeting came in August 2001, when Manchester United recorded a thrilling 3-2 victory at Old Trafford, with Ruud van Nistelrooy scoring twice.
Over the years, United have produced several memorable results against the London side, including a 5-1 win in 2006 and a 5-0 victory at Craven Cottage in 2011. Fulham's most famous Premier League successes came in 2009 when they won 3-0 at home and again in February 2024, when goals from Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi secured a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford.
Recent meetings have generally been tight affairs. Four of the last six Premier League encounters have been decided by a single goal, highlighting Fulham's growing competitiveness despite United's long-standing dominance in the fixture.
Overall, the history of this Premier League matchup has largely belonged to Manchester United, but Fulham have shown in recent seasons that they are capable of causing problems for the Reds on their day.
Ones to Watch: Manchester United
Bruno Fernandes: United's Leader Must Set the Standard
When pressure mounts, United inevitably look towards Bruno Fernandes. The captain has consistently been the team's creative heartbeat and will need to dictate the tempo against Fulham if United are to return to winning ways.
Fernandes must focus on quick forward passing and intelligent movement between Fulham's midfield and defensive lines. United have looked predictable in recent matches, and his ability to unlock compact defences could be crucial at Craven Cottage. Just as importantly, he needs to lead emotionally. Following defeats to Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion, United need composure rather than desperation.
Should he start? Absolutely. United's most important player cannot be left out when the team is under this much pressure.
Shea Lacey: Fearlessness Could Be Key
The young winger has shown flashes of quality whenever given opportunities. Against a Fulham side likely to be aggressive and energetic at home, Lacey's direct running and willingness to take defenders on could provide something different.
The teenager must play with confidence rather than caution. United have often lacked unpredictability in attack, and Lacey has the ability to create moments from nothing.
Should he start? Potentially. If Carrick wants energy and creativity, Lacey deserves serious consideration, although an impact role from the bench may be the safer option.
Marcus Rashford: Time to Deliver
No United player faces more scrutiny than Rashford. The forward has the pace and quality to hurt Fulham, but consistency remains the biggest challenge.
United need Rashford to be decisive in the final third. Too often his performances have drifted in and out of matches. Against Fulham, his movement behind the defence and ability to attack space could be one of United's biggest weapons.
Should he start? Yes. Despite criticism, Rashford remains one of United's most dangerous attacking players and this feels like the type of game where he could make the difference.
Ones to Watch: Fulham
Gonzalo Garcia: The Goalscoring Threat
If Fulham are to upset Manchester United, much could depend on the finishing ability of Gonzalo Garcia. The forward has built a reputation as a clinical attacker who needs very few opportunities to make an impact.
United's defence has looked vulnerable in recent weeks, particularly when dealing with quick transitions and crosses into the penalty area. Garcia will look to exploit any uncertainty and punish lapses in concentration. With United still recovering from their disappointing defeats to Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion, a fast start from the striker could put the visitors under immediate pressure.
Oscar Bobb: Creativity and Unpredictability
One player United supporters should be wary of is Oscar Bobb. The attacking midfielder possesses the technical ability to unlock defences and create chances from seemingly harmless situations.
Bobb's movement between the lines and willingness to carry the ball forward could cause problems for a United midfield that has struggled to control matches at times this season. If Fulham can get him on the ball regularly, he has the quality to provide the decisive pass or produce a moment of individual brilliance.
Josh King: The Young Talent Looking to Impress
Young players often thrive in big occasions, and Josh King will see Sunday's match as another opportunity to showcase his potential. The youngster brings energy, enthusiasm and a fearless approach that can unsettle opponents.
Whether he starts or comes off the bench, King could be an important weapon for Fulham. Fresh legs against a United side that may be carrying the weight of expectation could create opportunities late in the match.
Manchester United Predicted XI
Lammens;
Mazraoui, Maguire, Martinez, Amass;
Mainoo, Tielemans;
Lacey, Fernandes, Rashford;
Cunha
Fulham Predicted XI
Leno;
Castagne, Affengruber, Bassey, Robinson;
Berge, Charles;
Bobb, King, Iwobi;
Garcia
Match Prediction
This has the feel of a defining match for United. Following last weekend's controversial 1-0 defeat to Manchester City and the damaging midweek collapse against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup, where United surrendered a two-goal lead before losing 3-2, the pressure on Michael Carrick is greater than at any point this season.
The atmosphere surrounding the club is tense, and anything other than a positive result at Craven Cottage is likely to increase scrutiny on both the manager and the football leadership. United's defensive frailties have been exposed repeatedly in recent weeks, but setbacks often bring a reaction from teams with quality and pride.
Fulham will believe they can take advantage of United's fragile confidence, particularly at home. However, Marco Silva's side have also struggled for consistency and have picked up just one point from their opening four Premier League matches.
Expect a nervous and difficult afternoon for the visitors, but the urgency of the situation could bring the response United desperately need. If players such as Bruno Fernandes and the attacking unit can produce their best form, United should have enough quality to edge the contest.
A convincing performance may be too much to ask given recent events, but three points are simply too important for United to leave London empty-handed.
Fulham 1-2 Manchester United
https://mufclatest.com/preview-fulham-v-united-a-must-win-match-for-united-and-carrick-the-players-need-to-step-up-and-show-some-fight/
Matchday Preview: Man UtdA tough start to the campaign has seen Manchester United lose three of their six matches across all competitions, away to Hull City in their opener, as well as twice at Old Trafford in four days recently - in the Manchester derby in the Premier League, and letting a two-goal lead slip to Brighton in the Carabao Cup.
Team news
🤍 Ryan Sessegnon could return, but Kenny Tete and Tom Cairney are not ready.
🔵 Michael Carrick has said that Luke Shaw and Carlos Baleba have "a chance" of featuring at the Cottage, but Matthijs de Ligt, Amad and Manuel Ugarte are all absent.
Tickets
This match has sold out - thank you for your support!
Kits
Fulham in white, United in blue.
(https://images.webapi.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1400x1400/16cb29e0-b368-11f1-bd16-4b318e121675.jpg)
Weather
🌤 Sunny intervals, with temperatures around 19 degrees at kick-off.
Coverage
FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid, while the game will also be broadcast on Sky Sports. Overseas supporters can see who is showing the game in your region at this page.
Match pack
All the key info and timings for Sunday can be found in our new Match Pack.
Persistent standing
We would like to thank you all for your incredible support and passion that you display frequently in encouraging the team at Craven Cottage and on our travels.
We are mindful that we would like to continue to create a wonderful atmosphere at Craven Cottage to support the team, however we do need to remind all supporters that persistent standing during matches is not permitted. This is to comply with match day safety regulation and to ensure the comfort of all supporters attending.
Due to persistent standing in the Hammersmith Stand last season, the Club was required to put in measures to prevent this from happening going forward which involved moving several Season Ticket holders to another location so that an area for stewards could be facilitated. The Hammersmith Stand is a licensed all-seating stand.
We would appreciate your cooperation to avoid any further measures being imposed and we thank you.
The Club is in discussion with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) & Safety Advisory Group (SAG) regarding Safe Standing at Craven Cottage.
Here to help
If you have any questions on matchday, keep an eye out for our roaming helpers around the ground.
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Fulham Flutter
The Fulham Flutter allows fans from across the UK to go into the running to win some unique Fulham prizes. Fans can purchase a season ticket to be automatically entered into every home draw or buy tickets on a match-by-match basis, with the winner of our top prize announced on the big screen at half-time of the match.
FUL STOP
At Craven Cottage, everyone is welcome. Together, we can create a safe and inclusive matchday experience for all supporters. Report any discriminatory or anti-social behaviour using the free phone number below.
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Bag lanes
Following supporter feedback, we can confirm that a greater number of bag lanes will be in operation this season. These are located at Johnny Haynes 21, 22, 27 & 28, Hammersmith 32, 33, 34 & 35, and Putney 15, 16, 17 & 18. The Club's Bag Policy will remain in operation.
Programme
Shea Charles is embracing the next chapter of his career at Fulham.
Our fifth official matchday programme of the season is led by an extensive interview with the summer signing from Southampton. He talks settling into SW6, learning under Álvaro Arbeloa, that hard-earned point at Anfield, and why there's still plenty more to come.
"It's never easy leaving a team," he says. "It was quite upsetting, especially the way it ended last season, but I felt like it was the right time for me to go.
"As soon as I found out Fulham were interested, I was interested as well. I spoke with the manager, and I felt like we saw football in the same way."
Elsewhere, Arbeloa and Tom Cairney pen their regular programme notes, we hear from Josh King and Robert Wilson, while William Kvist looks back on a short but eventful stint at the Cottage.
With further insightful content from across all areas of the Club, it's the definitive publication for Fulham fans.
Pick up your copy from sellers around the ground, priced £4, or order online from Press Box Publishing.
(https://images.webapi.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1400x1400/84439bb0-b368-11f1-bd16-4b318e121675.jpg)
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/september/18/matchday-preview-manchester-united/
Kenny Tete to miss Man United clash as Alvaro Arbeloa provides Fulham injury update
Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has ruled Kenny Tete out of Sunday's Premier League clash against Manchester United.
The Cottagers are set to turn their focus back to Premier League action after beating West Ham United 3-2 in a dramatic EFL Cup tie in midweek.
Arbeloa will hope his side can build upon that result by claiming his first Premier League win in Sunday's home meeting with Man United.
The Fulham boss has confirmed he will head into the fixture with the services of Tom Cairney and Kenny Tete, the latter of whom is following concussion protocols.
Arbeloa provides injury update ahead of Man United clash
Sessegnon is also a doubt after missing the last two competitive matches through injury.
"Tom is still recovering. Tete won't be available. We need to see if Sess (Ryan Sessegnon) is available for Sunday", Arbeloa said as per Fulhamish.
Commenting further on Tete's absence, Arbeloa said: "It's a concussion after the ball hit him in the Anfield game, so he's still not available.
"I think he'll be ready for an international break. Unfortunately, he's not ready for a Sunday."
How will Tete's absence affect Arbeloa's selection plans?
Over the years, Tete has been seen as Fulham's first-choice right-back, but that has not been the case in the early stages of Arbeloa's tenure.
The full-back looked set to join Everton in the latter stages of the summer window, but the proposed move fell through after Fulham failed in their attempts to sign a replacement.
Tete's absence this weekend leaves Arbeloa without an alternative right-back on the bench, but it is unlikely to change his plans for his starting lineup, with Timothy Castagne set to retain his place on the right side of the back four.
Antonee Robinson, meanwhile, will continue at left-back even if Sessegnon proves his fitness in time for the home clash.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/injury-news/news/tete-to-miss-man-united-clash-as-arbeloa-provides-fulham-injury-update_605440.html
Arbeloa wants more of the same from Fulham against United
Alvaro Arbeloa wants Fulham to approach Sunday's game against Manchester United with the same intensity they showed against Liverpool.
The recent draw at Anfield brought the Whites their first point since Arbeloa took over as head coach.
And he wants more of the same this weekend.
Arbeloa explained: "We controlled (the transitions) better. When we were attacking, I think we were more balanced. When we lost the ball, we pressed them.
"I think this is the way. United are very good in counter-attacks. We need to approach the game in the same way.
"We want to play high intensity with and without the ball. We want to be aggressive. That's what we want to do against every team."
Arbeloa also believes Premier League referees "can do better", following some controversial decisions last weekend.
He felt Fulham should have been awarded a penalty at Liverpool, while United's derby against Manchester City also produced refereeing controversy.
"I think they can do better for sure," the Spaniard said.
"I'm still thinking why it wasn't a penalty against Josh (King) against Alisson. For me it was so clear.
"I think the referees, even the games against Chelsea and Liverpool that we played, I think they could be better. Obviously it's not an easy job, but I think they have the tools they need to do better.
"So we are behind them and trying to support the referees and trying to support their decisions."
Tom Cairney is still out and Kenny Tete is unavailable for the game at Anfield because of concussion.
Ryan Sessegnon has trained and will be assessed before Arbeloa decides his line-up.
https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/arbeloa-wants-more-of-the-same-from-fulham-against-united
Arbeloa adamant Fulham must respect Man United's quality
The Fulham head coach is convinced the Red Devils demand respect.
Alvaro Arbeloa addressed the challenge of competing against Manchester United.
The Red Devils picked up four points from their first four Premier League games, losing to newly promoted Hull City and 10-man Manchester City as well as drawing with a depleted Everton.
·'They have very talented and top players'
On Wednesday evening, the pressure piled up even further for the next opponents of Fulham as Michael Carrick watched his side throw away an early two-goal lead in an eventual 3-2 defeat to Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round. However, Arbeloa does not believe that the Cottagers can assume they will kick the 'Big Six' side while they are down without encountering any resistance.
"We are preparing for the game against Man United, and we are still believing that we can beat them, if we do a very good match from the first minute, and we know that we have to play at our best level – same level that we saw at Anfield – and that's our target.
"When I see the players that they have, you can see they can win the game in one second. Marcus Rashford, Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, Youri Tielemans, the fullbacks like to go forward.
"They have very talented and top players and, of course, they are Man United, so you know what it means, and like I said before, if we want to beat them – and we believe that we can beat them – we need to play at the very high level that we did at Anfield for 90 minutes.
"Even doing that, we couldn't beat Liverpool, we couldn't beat Chelsea. In both games, we did really well. So, we are facing one of the best teams in the world, we know that, and we need to be ready.
"Fulham is important, and I think our supporters deserve one victory against Man United. I know that is so difficult, and the last time that we beat them here at Craven Cottage was too many years ago, so we will give our best and try to give them a victory."
https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2026/09/18/fulham/1272016-arbeloa-adamant-fulham-must-respect-man-united-s-quality.html
Date confirmed for Palace tie
Fulham's Fourth Round Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage will take place on Wednesday 28th October (7.45pm).
The game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports+.
Ticket information will follow in due course.
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/september/18/date-for-palace-tie-confirmed/