Manchester United are set to face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in the Premier League on Saturday.
The Red Devils have already secured their return to the UEFA Champions League after mathematically guaranteeing a top-five finish.
Sunderland have enjoyed a solid comeback season to the Premier League, although a recent dip in form has seen them slide to 12th in the table.
With both sides boasting several standout performers, we have put together a combined XI based on current form and player availability.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper
Robin Roefs
There is very little separating Senne Lammens and Roefs statistically this season.
While Lammens has looked more reliable when it comes to avoiding costly mistakes, Roefs edges the battle with a superior save percentage.
Based on the latest DataMB metrics, Roefs narrowly earns the nod between the sticks.
Defence
Nordi Mukiele, Harry Maguire, Ayden Heaven, Luke Shaw
Mukiele edges out Diogo Dalot due to his superior output in the final third.
The 28-year-old has already produced seven goal contributions this season, including two goals in his last four appearances. Shaw is a straightforward choice at left-back.
Maguire has arguably been the standout centre-back across both teams this season with his commanding displays.
He is partnered by Ayden Heaven, particularly after Sunderland have shipped 10 goals across their last three matches
Ironically, Heaven may not even start the game, with Lisandro Martinez now available again after serving a three-match suspension.
Midfield
Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes
Granit Xhaka has undoubtedly been one of the signings of the season.
However, the midfielder narrowly misses out here given the sensational form of Casemiro and Mainoo.
Casemiro has excelled in winning the ball back and chipped in with crucial goals. Mainoo makes United play good football.
As for the attacking midfield role, there is simply no better option than Fernandes right now.
The Portuguese playmaker comfortably takes his place in his favoured number 10 role.
Attack
Bryan Mbeumo, Brian Brobbey, Matheus Cunha
Cunha is currently enjoying a red-hot run of form with three goals in his last five appearances. He is undoubtedly the first attacker on our list.
There are doubts over the availability of Benjamin Sesko, allowing Brobbey to spearhead the attack.
The right-wing position has been a problem area for both clubs in recent weeks.
However, based on overall impact throughout the 2025-26 campaign, Mbeumo earns the spot on the right flank.
Stats from Fotmob.com
