Man United Face Double Injury Concern Ahead of Carabao Cup Clash | OneFootball

Manchester United Injury Update: Ruben Amorim Faces Defensive Concerns

Manchester United continue their busy start to the season with Carabao Cup action against Grimsby, followed by a Premier League meeting with Burnley. The focus remains not only on results but also on how Ruben Amorim manages a squad already affected by injuries. With Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martinez both unavailable, questions are being asked about when key reinforcements will return.

Mazraoui’s Fitness Battle

Noussair Mazraoui has been absent since featuring in Manchester United’s first pre-season friendly, a goalless draw with Leeds in which he played only 45 minutes. The Moroccan international, who delivered 57 appearances across all competitions last season, is struggling with a thigh problem that has forced him out of United’s opening league fixtures.

His absence has been felt both in defence and in transition play, with Amorim deprived of a player who can provide balance across the back line. Supporters are eager for clarity but, as of now, the manager has not provided any timeframe.

“Amorim has not yet revealed when the versatile defender will be available for selection again.”

Potential return date: Unknown.

Martinez Steps up Recovery

Lisandro Martinez remains Manchester United’s most significant long-term absentee. The Argentine centre-back is working his way back from an ACL injury suffered against Crystal Palace in February.

The injury disrupted not only the second half of United’s last campaign but also their summer planning, with Amorim forced to reshuffle his defensive options. Martinez has increased the intensity of his rehabilitation but is still some way from competitive football. While his leadership and aggression are sorely missed, early autumn is considered the earliest realistic point for his return.

Potential return date: Unknown.

Amorim’s Tactical Challenge

For Ruben Amorim, the situation highlights both the promise and the problem of taking charge at Old Trafford. His philosophy demands energy, width and flexibility, yet he is already contending with unavailable defenders in key areas. Against Arsenal and Fulham his team produced encouraging phases of play, but mistakes and missed chances, such as Bruno Fernandes’ penalty at Craven Cottage, underlined the fragility of a squad still adapting to his methods.

Rodrigo Muniz’s own goal had put United ahead against Fulham, but the inability to secure victory left Amorim frustrated. That match at least carried one piece of good news, with no new injuries reported ahead of the Carabao Cup tie. The objective now is to progress past Grimsby, build rhythm in the Premier League and reach the international break with momentum.

Focus Turns to Burnley

Beyond the immediate cup fixture, Burnley present the final domestic test before the break. United’s ability to cope without Mazraoui and Martinez will shape their early season form and their standing in the table. With no firm dates for either player’s return, Amorim must rely on squad depth and adaptability.

For Manchester United supporters, the wait for positive news continues. Patience may be required, but the manager knows that results in the short term are essential if his long-term project is to take root.