United’s injury list finally easing as top stars close in on return | OneFootball

Man United Injuries: Key Players Nearing Return as Crisis Eases

As international duty winds down, there’s cautious optimism at Old Trafford. What once resembled a casualty ward is beginning to show signs of life. Several sidelined names—ranging from seasoned internationals to breakout youth talents—are edging closer to full fitness. And while it may not signal a total reprieve for Man United, it hints at a less fraught run-in to the season.

Heaven’s Fall, Swift Rise

Ayden Heaven’s full Premier League debut against Leicester City had the fairytale feel of a youth product rising on the big stage—until it ended in a stretcher and a protective boot. Concerns were immediate and valid, with fears the youngster had joined a growing list of long-term absentees.

But the signs are better than expected. Heaven has been spotted walking unaided and was even seen at Carrington without the boot. On Instagram, he posted:

A post-international break return is in the frame. For a squad running low on fresh legs and energy, even the potential availability of a teenager feels like welcome reinforcements.

Potential return: April 2025

Defence Still Fragile, But Reinforcements Loom

The back line has been the epicentre of Man United’s injury woes, but there’s cause for cautious hope.

Leny Yoro exited early in the draw against Arsenal and missed the next two fixtures. But Ruben Amorim quickly calmed any panic:

That statement alone offers United a boost. With Harry Maguire also sitting out recent games due to a calf problem, the timing could not be better. He too is expected to return shortly after the break.

Photo: IMAGO

Yoro return: April 2025Maguire return: April 2025

Shaw, Mainoo and Amad Offer Hope for Run-in

Luke Shaw’s season has been a stutter-stop affair, marred by repeated muscle injuries. A minor December comeback was followed by another setback, and he’s managed just three appearances this term. Amorim has not given up hope, suggesting Shaw could yet play a part before the campaign closes.

Kobbie Mainoo, meanwhile, was a notable absentee from England’s squad, but is nearing full fitness after an unspecified knock. His return would not only restore midfield balance but inject much-needed drive.

Amad Diallo, so influential before his injury, is no longer ruled out for the season. Amorim dropped a glimmer of positivity:

Shaw return: May 2025Mainoo return: April 2025Amad return: May 2025

Goalkeeper Depth Thin, Long-Term Absentees Linger

United’s goalkeeping options are also diminished. Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are recovering from unspecified issues, though updates remain vague. Amorim last said:

Jonny Evans, a valuable veteran presence, hasn’t featured since December. Lisandro Martinez remains a long-term absentee following surgery on a cruciate ligament injury.

Bayindir, Heaton, Evans return: UnknownMartinez return: Nov/Dec 2025