Manchester United is set to host Sunderland at Old Trafford this weekend in a crucial Premier League fixture, as they aim to return to winning ways before the upcoming international break. The pressure is mounting on manager Ruben Amorim, whose side suffered a 3-1 defeat to Brentford in their last outing and has accumulated just seven points from their opening six matches this term.

Amorim's tenure at United is under intense scrutiny following a poor start to the season, with the team currently sitting in 14th position. The timing of this match, just before the international break, has been highlighted by pundits like Harry Redknapp as potentially decisive for Amorim's future. Reports even suggest potential candidates like Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and Fabian Hurzeler could be considered if a change is made.

The squad faces several injury concerns. Lisandro Martinez continues his recovery from an ACL injury, with no specific timeframe for his return, raising doubts about his long-term fitness. Amad Diallo, after missing the Brentford game due to personal leave, is expected to be available for the Sunderland clash on October 4. Noussair Mazraoui, currently sidelined, is targeting a return after the international break, potentially for the Liverpool away fixture on October 19. On a positive note, Casemiro, who served a one-match suspension for two yellow cards, is available for selection against Sunderland.

Match predictions for the Sunderland game vary but generally reflect United's challenging form. Harry Redknapp anticipates a "nervy 1-1 draw," praising Sunderland's solidity and organization while noting United's continued underwhelming performances and defensive vulnerabilities. He emphasizes Bruno Fernandes's importance to the team, despite recent penalty misses. Chris Sutton, a former Premier League striker, goes further, predicting a 1-0 victory for Sunderland. Sutton criticized United as a "mess," highlighting poor defending from players like Harry Maguire and Altay Bayindir, and expressed sympathy for Amorim while noting the team's lack of improvement under him.

Amidst the on-field struggles, Manchester United is also looking to strengthen its squad, particularly in defense. The club holds a long-term interest in Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite, viewing him as a potential long-term solution at centre-back. Despite the 23-year-old signing a new deal, United is reportedly preparing a £65 million offer for the January transfer window. Manager Ruben Amorim is said to have doubts about Lisandro Martinez's long-term fitness and Harry Maguire's contract situation, making a move for Branthwaite highly plausible.

Carlo Ancelotti, Branthwaite's former manager at Everton, has provided a glowing review of the young defender. Ancelotti, now Brazil's coach, considers Branthwaite his "best bit of business" during his time at Everton, having signed him from Carlisle United as a teenager. He praised Branthwaite's character, focus, calm demeanor under pressure, and quality on the ball, even after just a few senior appearances. Branthwaite's journey included loan spells at Blackburn Rovers and PSV Eindhoven before cementing his place at Everton, and he is now nearing full fitness and aiming to catch the eye of England boss Thomas Tuchel. Ancelotti’s strong endorsement underscores Branthwaite’s potential as a top-tier defender.