Mansion Sports - The 2025/26 Carabao Cup delivers another intriguing storyline as Grimsby Town prepare to host Manchester United in the second round at Blundell Park on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00 p.m. local time.

This match is far more than a routine fixture; it marks a historic opportunity for the League Two side to challenge the Premier League giants, whom they last faced in competitive action back in 1948. Ahead of this highly anticipated clash, Mansion Sports presents its prediction for the Grimsby Town vs Manchester United lineups in 2025.

Grimsby Town Chasing an Upset

For Grimsby Town, this encounter represents a golden opportunity. Having eliminated Shrewsbury Town in the first round, The Mariners now have the chance to face world-class opposition. While the disparity in quality on paper is evident, their confidence is running high.

Under the guidance of David Artell, Grimsby remain unbeaten in their first six matches of the season, collecting 11 points from five League Two outings. 

On home soil, they have claimed three consecutive victories, reinforcing Blundell Park’s reputation as a difficult ground for opponents. 

Their in-form striker, Jaze Kabia, has already netted four goals and will be relied upon heavily to lead the attack.

Manchester United Still Searching for Rhythm

Manchester United approach this fixture from a contrasting perspective. Their opening two Premier League matches have yielded just one point, a return far below expectations.

Head coach Ruben Amorim is in need of a victory to lift the team’s morale, particularly as their recent away record has been poor, with only two wins from their last 13 outings. 

Squad rotation is expected to play a crucial role, with Benjamin Sesko likely to start up front, while Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo are set to strengthen the midfield.

Young defender Tyler Fredricson could be handed a starting opportunity, while goalkeeper Andre Onana is almost certain to return between the posts. 

However, the absences of Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martínez leave United’s backline short of full strength.

Predicted Lineups: Grimsby Town vs Manchester United 2025

Grimsby Town (4-5-1)

• Goalkeeper: Christy Pym
• Defenders: Toby Rodgers, Harvey Warren, Sam McJannet, Cian Staunton
• Midfielders: Bernard Amaluzor, Josh McEachran, Justin Turi, Evan Khouri, Abo Eisa Burns
• Forward: Jaze Kabia
• Manager: David Artell

Manchester United (3-4-2-1)

• Goalkeeper: Andre Onana
• Defenders: Luke Shaw, Tyler Fredricson, Harry Maguire
• Midfielders: Diogo Dalot, Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte, Diogo Dalot
• Attacking Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha
• Forward: Benjamin Sesko
• Manager: Ruben Amorim

A Match Rich in History and Emotion

The Carabao Cup 2025/26 meeting between Grimsby Town and Manchester United is more than just a game. 

For Grimsby, it is a chance to write a new chapter in front of their home supporters, while for Manchester United, it serves as an important test to regain momentum early in the season.

With the home side’s spirit at its peak and the visitors’ depth of talent, the match promises plenty of drama. 

The question remains: can Grimsby pull off one of the great upsets of the season, or will Manchester United reaffirm their superiority? 

The lineups are set — now all that is left is to see who will shine brightest under the lights at Blundell Park.