Why is Kobbie Mainoo Not Playing Tonight For Manchester United vs. Atletico Madrid?

Manchester United take on La Liga powerhouse Atletico Madrid as the Red Devils look to bounce back after a disappointing Premier League weekend.

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Michael Carrick’s side has been underwhelming this season having secured only six points from six games so far in the Premier League.

Although they did win their opening Champions League match against Sabah, criticism has only grown around a United side that looked set on a new identity after Carrick’s arrival last season.

The former United midfielder now has to lead the squad against an Atletico side who are only behind Barcelona in the La Liga standings. More importantly, Carrick is also without one of his most crucial players this season, Kobbie Mainoo.

Why is Kobbie Mainoo Not Playing Against Atletico Madrid?

Mainoo has been one of the few positives this season for Carrick and United. The 21-year-old, after a disappointing World Cup with England where he did not play a single minute, has shone so far and leads the league in possessions won (40) and also boasts a pass accuracy of 94%.

After the bitter 1-1 draw against Tottenham last weekend, Mainoo did not join the team training in Carrington after reports of a knock during the match.

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Along with the midfielder, Luke Shaw too has been sidelined for today’s fixture after the fullback was substituted in the second half.

Summer signings Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos are involved in the starting lineup today as Carrick makes adjustments following the injury setbacks.

🔴🔵 United’s XI to face Atletico, ft Bruno out wide and Ayden Heaven!

Thoughts on the team? 👇 pic.twitter.com/bNRLfPKQAO

— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) October 13, 2026

Marcus Rashford plays on the left while Bryan Mbeumo leads the attack and Bruno Fernandes moved to the right in a surprising call from the manager.

The back four consists of Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Aiden Heaven and Leny Yoro with Sean Lammens as the goalkeeper.

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This story was originally published October 13, 2026 at 2:16 PM.