Manchester United is gearing up for their first match in the Champions League against Sabah FC, the champions of Azerbaijan. This encounter comes at a crucial time as the team is navigating a demanding schedule, with three matches a week expected in the coming months. After a challenging start to the Premier League season, where they managed only four points from three games, questions about the squad's depth and resilience are becoming increasingly pertinent.

Since Michael Carrick took over as manager in January, he has led Manchester United from seventh to third place, securing a return to the Champions League after two seasons. However, the team's performance in the Premier League has raised concerns, especially with a packed fixture list ahead. Last season, United played only 40 matches across all competitions, the lowest since 1913-1914, allowing Carrick to manage player fitness effectively. This season, however, they could play up to 67 matches, significantly increasing the demands on the squad.

Carrick has expressed optimism about the busy schedule, noting that while training time may be reduced, players will gain valuable match experience. Yet, the Champions League presents a significant test for the team's depth. In the 2024-2025 season, when United last juggled European fixtures, they finished a disappointing 15th in the Premier League.

Financially, Manchester United is well-equipped to handle the increased workload, having invested over $1.35 billion since 2022, with $220 million spent on new signings this summer alone. However, the distribution of these funds has raised eyebrows, particularly as the majority have been allocated to midfield reinforcements, leaving the defense underfunded. Only 19% of their total spending has gone towards defenders, resulting in a squad that is strong in some areas but lacking in others.

Despite the significant investment, the team appears to be aging, with many players from the starting lineup against Everton still in place since Erik ten Hag's first match in 2022. This continuity has led to criticisms regarding performance, especially as the squad struggles to adapt to the increased demands of the upcoming season.

As they prepare to face Sabah FC, Carrick may opt to rotate his squad, providing an opportunity for backup players to prove their worth. However, the quality of these substitutes remains a concern. While United boasts the second-largest squad in the Premier League, their depth varies significantly by position, with a notable imbalance between the attack and defense.

In their recent matches, the drop in performance when substitutes are introduced has been evident, highlighting the need for a balanced and deep squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. With the Champions League returning, Manchester United must quickly adapt to the rigors of a congested schedule, or risk further challenges in their pursuit of success this season.