Manchester United injury update ahead of their clash with Leeds United on 13 April 2026 suggests the international break may arrive at the perfect time for Michael Carrick’s squad.
Following a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth, United face a 24-day gap between fixtures, offering valuable recovery time for several key players. With Harry Maguire suspended for the next match, attention has shifted to the fitness of Lisandro MartÃnez, Matthijs de Ligt and Patrick Dorgu.
Manchester United injury update on Lisandro MartÃnez return
Lisandro MartÃnez is the closest of the injured players to making a comeback. The defender has missed the last five matches after picking up a minor issue ahead of the Everton fixture in late February.
Michael Carrick confirmed the Argentina international is nearing full fitness. "[Lisandro is] closer, a lot closer. He's getting there… I think he'll be alright."
His potential return against Leeds would be significant, especially with Maguire unavailable and Leny Yoro having stepped in during his absence.
Potential return date:Â Monday April 13, vs Leeds (H)
Matthijs de Ligt injury concerns continue
Matthijs de Ligt remains the most uncertain case within the Manchester United injury update. The Dutch defender has been sidelined since 30 November 2025 after suffering a lower back injury against Crystal Palace.
Despite initial optimism, he has yet to return to full first-team training. "He's obviously trying to work towards getting back, but it's just the back issue really that's proving difficult."
Based on recent matches we’ve covered, United have had to adapt defensively without him, and there is now growing concern he could miss the remainder of the season.
Potential return date:Â Unknown
Patrick Dorgu recovery timeline still unclear
Patrick Dorgu’s absence has also been felt after an impressive start under Carrick. The left-sided player picked up a hamstring injury during the win over Arsenal, halting his momentum.
Carrick indicated the injury is more serious than initially thought. "At the moment, it is looking a little bit more of a serious note… a few weeks out."
If the expected recovery timeline holds, Dorgu could return in time for the Leeds fixture, although that remains subject to ongoing assessment.
Potential return date:Â Monday April 13, vs Leeds (H)
Additional update on Noussair Mazraoui
Noussair Mazraoui was absent from the squad against Bournemouth due to illness. The issue is not believed to be long-term, and he is expected to be available again after the international break.
Potential return date:Â Monday April 13, vs Leeds (H)
What this means for Manchester United
Manchester United’s current position in the Premier League table, sitting third, makes this injury update particularly important. The extended break offers a chance to restore defensive stability ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
| Player | Status |
|---|---|
| Lisandro MartÃnez | Close to return |
| Matthijs de Ligt | Unavailable (uncertain) |
| Patrick Dorgu | In recovery |
| Noussair Mazraoui | Illness (short-term) |
source: club updates – 22 March 2026
Having followed Manchester United closely this season, defensive continuity has been a key factor in their improved results under Carrick. The return of MartÃnez in particular could help restore balance at the back.
However, it remains too early to confirm whether all players will be fully fit in time for the Leeds match.
Key Insights
- Lisandro MartÃnez is nearing a return and could feature against Leeds
- Matthijs de Ligt may miss the remainder of the season with a back injury
- Patrick Dorgu is expected to be out for several weeks with a hamstring issue
- Noussair Mazraoui’s absence is short-term due to illness
- The 24-day break offers Manchester United a key recovery window
What’s next?
Manchester United will continue monitoring player fitness during the international break, with the Leeds United fixture on 13 April 2026 the primary target for several returns.
Carrick is expected to reassess his squad closer to the match, particularly in defence, where availability could shape selection decisions.
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