In a challenging match against Chelsea, Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick opted for Noussair Mazraoui and 19-year-old Ayden Heaven as his centre-back duo due to a lack of available defenders. With Harry Maguire serving a one-match ban and Lisandro Martinez suspended, Carrick faced limited options. Mazraoui, who had not previously played as a centre-back in a back four for United, showed resilience and composure throughout the match. The choice to keep Luke Shaw in his preferred position and utilize a right-footer (Mazraoui) alongside a left-footer (Heaven) was crucial for maintaining defensive balance. Carrick emphasized that preparation involved more strategic discussions than traditional training, which paid off as United secured a clean sheet, ultimately winning the match.