Manchester United are involved in the Carabao Cup second round for the first time since 2014, and the Red Devils take on League Two side Grimsby Town on Wednesday night.
Louis van Gaal was in charge for United’s infamous 4–0 defeat to MK Dons at this stage of the competition 11 years ago, and their cup campaign is starting early again due to their absence from UEFA’s club competitions this season.
The Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League last term, and missed out on the chance to qualify for the Champions League by losing 1–0 to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.
Ruben Amorim has thus sought to rejuvenate his side over the summer, but United have started 2025–26 having amassed just a point from two league games. Their 1–1 draw at Fulham raised more questions over the long-term viability of Amorim’s system, given the distinct flaws.
United are facing Grimsby for the first time since 1948 at Blundell Park, with the League Two side starting the new season six games unbeaten. The Mariners returned to the English Football League in 2022 and enjoyed a successful season last time out after barely avoiding the drop in 2023–24.
A 3–1 victory over Shrewsbury in the first round set up this grand occasion.
Here is’s guide to Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup tie.
