Man United to Host Sabah at Old Trafford in Champions League Opener

Sabah reach the group stage for the first time which will give a number of United players their first exposure to Europe’s top club competition.

Overview

Manchester United will welcome Sabah to Old Trafford for Matchday 1 of the UEFA Champions League on Thursday, September 10, 2026, marking the competition’s return to the venue since 2023.
Sabah reached the group stage by winning qualifying ties including a 5–2 aggregate win over Hapoel Beer Sheva and a 4–0 win over AGF, and arrive on strong domestic form after a 5–0 win over Zira.
Several Manchester United squad members lack prior Champions League experience and are likely to make their competition debuts, with names highlighted in previews including Bryan Mbeumo, goalkeeper Senne Lammens and defender Leny Yoro.
Pre-match coverage notes contrasting styles: United’s expected attacking front (Mbeumo, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Šeško) will face Sabah’s counter threats led by Joy-Lance Mickels and Veljko Simić, and Michael Carrick will manage United for the fixture.
Final lineups and confirmed injury news have not been published and previews warn that United’s mixed recent form — including a 2–2 draw with Everton — and Sabah’s momentum from qualifying add uncertainty to how the match will unfold; Sabah’s progress also signals growing visibility for Azerbaijani club football on the European stage.