Manchester United return to Premier League action next Monday against Everton, but preparations have been hit by mixed injury news. Benjamin Šeško is expected to miss out with a knee issue, while Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire, and Kobbie Mainoo could all hand Rúben Amorim a badly needed fitness boost.
United’s form has shown signs of improvement, yet their squad depth remains fragile — particularly with the Africa Cup of Nations set to take several senior players away next month. The absence of Šeško is a major setback, with the 22-year-old one of only two natural centre-forwards available. As United approach a demanding winter schedule, every returning player counts.
Benjamin Šeško ruled out with knee injury
Šeško headed straight down the tunnel during the 2–2 draw with Tottenham before the international break, visibly struggling after a last-ditch challenge from Micky van de Ven denied him a goal. Amorim admitted post-match:
“I’m concerned with an injury, because it is in the knee… We need Ben to be a better team.”
The Slovenian did not join his national team and multiple reports suggest he will be out for “a few weeks”, ruling him out of the Everton match and potentially several December fixtures.
Potential return date: December 2025
Lisandro Martínez finally ready for return
In a major boost, Lisandro Martínez is fully fit after spending most of 2025 recovering from his ACL injury. Although he returned to full training before the draw with Nottingham Forest, Amorim opted not to rush him back and left him out of the squad against both Forest and Spurs.
Martínez trained with Argentina during the break — with United’s blessing — and his intensity in sessions has reportedly impressed the coaching staff. Everton at Old Trafford now looks a realistic moment for his reintroduction.
Potential return date: 24 November 2025 vs Everton (H)
Harry Maguire pushing to return
Maguire’s comeback against Tottenham was cut short by a hamstring problem that forced him off alongside Casemiro. United conceded twice soon after their withdrawal, underlining Maguire’s influence this season.
Casemiro has already returned to action for Brazil, and United hope the two-week interval has given Maguire enough recovery time to feature on Monday night.
Potential return date: 24 November 2025 vs Everton (H)
Kobbie Mainoo expected back after minor knock
Mainoo missed the Spurs match after picking up a knock during training, prompting youngster Jack Fletcher to take his place in the squad and maintain United’s remarkable 4,000-game academy record.
The setback is understood to be minor, and Mainoo should return to full training before the Everton fixture. His ball-progression has been missed, especially with Casemiro only recently back to fitness.
Potential return date: 24 November 2025 vs Everton (H)
Our view: United’s squad about to reach a turning point
In our view, the next month could define United’s season. Šeško’s injury is poorly timed — both for the team and a striker who was just finding rhythm — but the returns of Martínez, Maguire and Mainoo may provide the defensive stability and structure United have lacked. Amorim’s system relies heavily on front-foot defending and clean progression from the back, qualities Martínez and Mainoo embody.
If United manage this period without major setbacks, they could finally build momentum heading into December — but with AFCON approaching, depth remains a pressing concern.
Key Insights
- Šeško out for several weeks with a knee injury; misses Everton.
- Martínez fully fit and expected to be in the squad on Monday.
- Maguire recovering well from hamstring issue.
- Mainoo’s knock minor; likely to feature vs Everton.
- United still light at centre-forward heading into a congested schedule.
What’s next for Manchester United
United host Everton on 24 November 2025, before matches against Bournemouth and their final Champions League group fixture. A clearer picture of Šeško’s timeline is expected later this week, while Martínez’s availability could give Amorim his strongest defensive unit of the season.
👉 United fans — which returning player do you think makes the biggest difference: Martínez, Maguire or Mainoo?
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