For Grimsby, this tie is the reward for their opening-round victory over Shrewsbury Town. The clash with United represents a massive occasion for the League Two side, who are eager to test themselves against Premier League opposition.
Their confidence will be high too, with David Artell’s men unbeaten in their first six matches of the season. They’ve picked up 11 points from five league games, scoring more than almost anyone else, and have made Blundell Park something of a fortress with three wins from three at home.
United, meanwhile, arrive under pressure. The Red Devils haven’t won a game yet this season, collecting just one point from their first two league fixtures. Manager Ruben Amorim knows his side badly need a positive result to avoid an early cup embarrassment.
On paper, United are overwhelming favorites, but their poor away record tells a different story – just two wins in their last 13 matches on the road. That statistic alone will give Grimsby an extra dose of belief that they can cause an upset.
INJURIES & SUSPENSIONS
Grimsby Town are expected to put out their strongest possible lineup as they aim to add further pressure on Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.
The Mariners do have some concerns, with Jason Svanthorsson and Sam Lavelle likely to miss the tie through injury. Still, they’ll look to their in-form striker Jaze Kabia, who has already found the net four times this season, to lead the charge.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are set to make changes. New signing Benjamin Šeško is tipped to be handed his first start for the club, while Bruno Fernandes should feature in a more advanced role, giving youngster Kobbie Mainoo a chance to impress in midfield.
There may also be an opportunity for teenage defender Tyler Fredricson, who was on the bench against Fulham, to be involved. In goal, out-of-favour Andre Onana could return to the side for his first outing of the campaign.
In terms of injuries, United remain without full-back Noussair Mazraoui and defender Lisandro Martínez, both of whom are sidelined.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Grimsby Town possible starting lineup:
Pym; Rodgers, Warren, McJannet, Staunton; Amaluzor, McEachran, Turi, Khouri, Burns; Kabia
Manchester United possible starting lineup:
Onana; Shaw, Fredricson, Maguire; Dalot, Mainoo, Ugarte, Dorgu; Fernandes, Cunha; Sesko
EXPERT PREDICTION
Grimsby Town 1-4 Manchester United
