UFC champion visits Manchester United

Michael Carrick’s first real blemish during his second spell in charge of Manchester United – a 2-1 loss to Newcastle United – was on Wednesday 4 March and his side haven’t played since.

The reason why the Red Devils are playing football matches once in a blue moon is because they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Brighton & Hove Albion.

Elsewhere, earlier in the season, their League Cup journey came to a shocking end when League Two outfit Grimsby Town beat them on penalties.

As a result, the Old Trafford faithful are expecting a top four finish.

It remains to be seen whether Carrick’s men have the minerals to retain their position in third (level on points with Aston Villa) but they are certainly in the driving seat.

Because of the lack of football, the players – Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Kobbie Mainoo and the like – have enjoyed a ten-day gap between the loss against Newcastle and the Villa fixture.

One would assume they’d be ready and raring to go because of their extended break, especially as Unai Emery’s men faced Lille in the Europa League on Thursday.

Not only have Carrick’s side been getting up to speed ahead of Sunday’s encounter but they have also welcomed UFC champion Charles Oliveira to Carrington.

Just recently, Oliveira dominated Max Holloway to win the BMF title by unanimous decision at UFC 326 in Las Vegas.

Holloway, the defending champion, was no match to the Brazilian’s expert grappling ability – and the T-Mobile Arena witnessed a masterclass from the 36-year-old.

Days later and Oliveira, who has been pictured alongside Cunha and Fernandes, made a trip to Manchester.