Manchester United's return to the Champions League marks a significant turnaround for the club, which has faced turmoil both on and off the pitch in recent years. The team's last participation in the competition was marred by a disappointing elimination in the group stage of the 2023/24 season, where they were paired with Bayern de Munique, Galatasaray, and Copenhagen. This time around, the club will be competing in the new format, featuring a league stage, for the first time.
The team's campaign begins on a promising note, with a home game against Sabah, one of the newcomers to the 2026/27 edition. Sabah, the Azerbaijani champions, has made history by reaching the league stage and will face a European tricampion in Manchester United. The English team, however, needs to overcome a poor start to the season to achieve victory in the European tournament. Manchester United has won only one of its first three Premier League matches, drawing with Everton and losing to Hull City in its opening game.
Manchester United will be without several players due to injuries, including De Ligt, Ugarte, Baleba, Diallo, and Heaton. Rashford is also a doubt after leaving the match against Everton with pains. Coach Michael Carrick may give Sesko a chance in the attack, alongside Matheus Cunha.
Manchester United will face Sabah at Old Trafford on Thursday, September 10, at 16h (Brasília time). The match will be broadcast on HBO Max.