Big week ahead! Wayne Rooney explains why Man United’s next 2 games are massive
By Luke Oluoch, September 7, 2026Focus is shifting rapidly at Manchester United as Michael Carrick’s side looks to shake off an inconsistent start to the 2026/27 season.
A dramatic 2-2 draw against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday left United frustrated after they conceded a 95th-minute equaliser to David Moyes’ men—marking the third consecutive league match in which the Red Devils have shipped two goals.
There is little time to dwell on the disappointment, however.
United returns to Europe’s elite competition on Thursday, September 10, when they face Azerbaijani debutants FK Sabah in the league phase, before hosting rival Manchester City in a crucial derby clash on Sunday.
The minnows will be marking their first appearance in the Champions League after ending FC Qarabag’s dominance at the domestic front.
Return to Champions League
Former United captain Wayne Rooney believes this pivotal double-header will define how Carrick’s opening month is judged.
“It is great to see them back in the Champions League. On Thursday, it is a game they simply have to win. But I think the big one is actually on the weekend. If Manchester United can win that derby, it turns into a good start. If they don’t, then it’s not a good start.” Rooney told BBC Sport“
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While Thursday’s European tie provides an immediate opportunity to rebuild momentum, all eyes remain on the weekend, where a statement victory against City could quickly rewrite the narrative around United’s early-season struggles.
Enzo Maresca’s side equally has a tricky Champions League fixture heading to Estadio Dragao to face FC Porto of Portugal.
The timing of their clash on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, means that the away team will be accorded more rest days prior to the match at Old Trafford on Sunday.
UEFA Champions League kickoff
The league phase of the 2026/27 European calendar will kick off on Thursday, August 27, 2026, with the spotlight falling to the start of the competition.
Greek top-flight side AEK Athens will officially kick off the 2026/27 campaign when they host LASK in the opening match. The tie is scheduled for 7:45 pm.
Premier League outfits City and Aston Villa will be among those in action on opening day. Villa will head to Belgium to face Cercle Brugge.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will start their campaign away to Napoli on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The Gunners will then host Lille on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, for their second fixture, with upcoming league phase ties also scheduled against Borussia Dortmund, Real Betis, Azerbaijan champions Sabah, and Slavia Prague.