| Man United vs Roma | |
| MATCH | UEFA |
| DATE | 04 - 11 - 2026 |
| TIME | 01.30 AM IST |
| STADIUM | Stretford |
Manchester United vs Roma: Match Preview, Team News & Champions League Form
Match Preview
Manchester United will be desperate to end their disappointing run of results when they welcome Roma to Old Trafford for a crucial UEFA Champions League encounter.
The Red Devils have endured a difficult period under Michael Carrick, with their latest defeat against Chelsea extending their winless streak to nine matches across all competitions.
United showed some encouraging signs during the first half at Stamford Bridge, creating several opportunities and threatening to take the lead. However, their inability to convert those chances ultimately proved costly.
Amad Diallo missed two promising opportunities before Morgan Rogers opened the scoring for Chelsea with an impressive individual effort. Lisandro Martinez was subsequently sent off after receiving two yellow cards in quick succession, with the second offence also resulting in a penalty.
Cole Palmer converted from the spot to secure a 2-0 victory for Chelsea, leaving United with defeats in their last three matches and four losses from their previous five outings.
The pressure on Carrick continues to increase, particularly with United sitting 17th in the Premier League standings and outside the relegation zone only on goal difference.
A Champions League victory would provide a much-needed boost, but the Red Devils must significantly improve their attacking efficiency and defensive organisation to overcome their Italian opponents.
Roma looking to exploit Manchester United's struggles
Roma arrive at Old Trafford in encouraging form, having recorded four victories and one draw across their last five matches in all competitions.
Gian Piero Gasperini's side have demonstrated impressive attacking quality, scoring three or more goals in four of those five unbeaten encounters.
Their recent performances include a 4-2 victory over Cagliari and an emphatic 5-2 triumph against Udinese. Roma also produced an entertaining 3-3 draw against Napoli, highlighting their ability to compete against strong opposition.
However, defensive weaknesses remain a concern. Roma have conceded multiple goals in several recent matches, which could provide Manchester United with opportunities to rediscover their attacking confidence.
The Italian side have also experienced mixed results in the Champions League, collecting four points from their opening three matches.
Roma have previously suffered heavy defeats against Manchester United, including a 7-1 loss in 2007 and a 6-2 defeat in 2021. Nevertheless, their current form will give them confidence that they can challenge the struggling Premier League side.
With United struggling for consistency and Roma enjoying a productive spell in front of goal, the visitors will believe they have a genuine opportunity to secure a positive result at Old Trafford.
Team News
Manchester United team news
Lisandro Martinez could feature against Roma despite his suspension in domestic competition. The Argentine defender is expected to partner Harry Maguire in central defence, with Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot potentially operating as full-backs.
Carrick faces several tactical decisions in midfield, particularly regarding Bruno Fernandes and Youri Tielemans.
Fernandes could be moved into a wider attacking position, allowing Tielemans to operate in a more advanced central role. Andrey Santos and Kobbie Mainoo could provide the midfield foundation.
Mason Mount may also feature in an attacking midfield role behind Bryan Mbeumo, while Matheus Cunha could be introduced from the bench.
United will be without Patrick Dorgu, Luke Shaw and Benjamin Sesko. Marcus Rashford and Amad Diallo are expected to undergo fitness assessments before the match.
Roma team news
Roma have no fresh injury concerns following their impressive victory over Udinese.
However, Muhammed Bah, Paulo Dybala, Manu Kone, Lorenzo Pellegrini and Mile Svilar remain unavailable for the midweek encounter.
Donyell Malen will be one of the players to watch for the visitors. The Dutch forward has scored eight goals in the Serie A scoring charts, while also contributing three Champions League goals.
His ability to find space and exploit defensive weaknesses could prove particularly important against a Manchester United side that has struggled to maintain defensive stability.
Malen has also registered two assists in the league, highlighting his contribution to Roma's attacking play.
With Dybala and Pellegrini unavailable, the responsibility of creating and converting opportunities will fall heavily on the shoulders of Malen and Roma's other attacking players.
Manchester United vs Roma: Match Prediction
Manchester United will be under considerable pressure to produce a positive result, but their recent performances suggest that Roma could pose a serious threat.
The visitors have shown greater attacking consistency in recent weeks, while United continue to struggle with defensive mistakes and a lack of goals.
However, Old Trafford could provide the hosts with the motivation needed to respond to their disappointing run.
Roma's defensive vulnerabilities may also allow United to create opportunities, particularly if Bruno Fernandes and Bryan Mbeumo find space in the final third.
Prediction: Manchester United 1-2 Roma
Conclusion
Manchester United and Roma meet in a Champions League encounter that could have significant implications for both teams.
Carrick's side need to end their winless run and restore confidence, while Roma will be determined to continue their impressive attacking form.
The visitors appear to have the momentum heading into the match, but United's home advantage could make this a closely contested encounter.