Manchester United’s momentum under Michael Carrick continues to build, but fresh injury concerns remain a significant subplot as the Red Devils prepare for another demanding stretch of fixtures.
United went into Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Fulham at Old Trafford already dealing with new fitness blows, yet still produced a dramatic 3-2 victory sealed by a stoppage-time winner from substitute Benjamin Šeško. Goals from Casemiro and Matheus Cunha had earlier been cancelled out before United leaned once again on late-game resilience reminiscent of the Sir Alex Ferguson era.
However, despite climbing back into the top four, Carrick’s side are still juggling several key absences ahead of Tottenham’s visit next weekend, followed by away trips to West Ham and Everton later in February.
Manchester United injury update: latest on Dorgu, Mount and De Ligt
Patrick Dorgu
Patrick Dorgu has been one of the breakout performers of Carrick’s interim spell, scoring against both Manchester City and Arsenal while thriving in an advanced left-sided role.
That run was halted at the Emirates Stadium, where Dorgu required treatment for a hamstring issue before being withdrawn. Early reports last week suggested the Dane could face up to 10 weeks out, a timeline Carrick has not confirmed but broadly acknowledged.
“Pat, unfortunately, is going to be out for a period of time,” Carrick explained. “It’s looking a little bit more of a serious note. A few weeks out. How many weeks? We will have to wait and see.”
Potential return date: March–April 2026
Mason Mount
Mason Mount was a surprise omission from the matchday squad against Fulham, prompting concerns over another setback in a stop-start United career.
Carrick later confirmed the issue was minor and sustained in training, insisting Mount’s absence was precautionary rather than serious.
“He took a bit of a knock in training. It is nothing serious,” Carrick told Sky Sports. “He will be back with us very, very soon.”
Potential return date: 7 February 2026 vs Tottenham (H)
Matthijs de Ligt
Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined with a lingering lower back problem that has kept him out since the 2-1 win at Crystal Palace on 30 November 2025.
Despite initial optimism that his return would be swift, De Ligt has yet to resume full training at Carrington, leaving his comeback uncertain.
“He's not trained with us yet, so we’re just working through the process of getting him back as soon as we can,” Carrick said on Friday.
Potential return date: Unknown
Key insights
- Dorgu’s absence is the most disruptive given his recent attacking impact under Carrick.
- Mount is expected back imminently and could be available against Spurs.
- De Ligt’s prolonged absence continues to test United’s centre-back depth.
- United’s attacking momentum has helped mask defensive and squad rotation issues.
- However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions on Dorgu’s exact return timeline.
What’s next
Manchester United host Tottenham on 7 February 2026 before travelling to West Ham and Everton later in the month. Carrick is hopeful Mount will be available immediately, but Dorgu is set for a longer spell out and De Ligt’s situation remains unresolved. How effectively United manage these absences will shape whether their recent surge can be sustained through a congested February schedule.
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