Nov 4, 2026 10:41 AM
Michael Carrick faces a selection crisis ahead of Aston Villa’s visit, as Carlos Baleba’s hamstring blow joins a growing list of absentees threatening United’s chances of building momentum.
Manchester United recorded their first win in almost two months on Tuesday evening, with a stunning 3-2 comeback victory over AS Roma, as Michael Carrick's men secured three points in the Champions League.
After the first half saw United down 2-0 for the sixth time this season, a second-half penalty from Bruno Fernandes, two late goals from Matheus Cunha, and a fantastic cameo from Shea Lacey secured a much-needed win for Michael Carrick.
Next up, the Reds remain at Old Trafford to host Aston Villa in the Premier League, in the final match before the international break. Villa have lost two of their last three games after winning eight of their last 10.
With United sitting above the relegation zone on goal difference heading into the weekend, Villa won't be an easy opponent. Whether Carrick keeps his job or not, the Reds must win to back up their second-half display midweek.
Below is all the latest on United's current injury situation as Carrick prepares his side for a tough test against Unai Emery's men.
Carlos Baleba
What happened: Carlos Baleba pulled up following a marauding run early in the second half against AS Roma, and was immeditaely subsituted while in considerable pain.
What's been said: "It's his hamstring," Carrick explained after the game. "So we'll just have to assess what that looks like. I mean, initially, it doesn't look great. Timelines? I haven't got much more to give you."
Possible return date: N/A until the player undergoes scans.
Benajmin Šeško
What happened: After missing pre-season with a shin issue, Benjamin Šeško played a few early-season games for United. He pulled out of the September international break as his injury flared up again.
What's been said: Reports emerged last month that Šeško could be out for the rest of the year, with Carrick subsequently confirming that the striker will "be out for a period of time."
Possible return date: January 2027.
Patrick Dorgu
What happened: Patrick Dorgu suffered a hamstring injury while playing with Denmark last month, but was spotted in training on Monday morning. He was then not included in the sqyad against Roma.
What's been said: "It was his first day with the group [on Monday]; great to have him back, but he won't be involved tomorrow," Carrick said on Monday afternoon. "We'll see how he progresses during the week."
Possible return date: Sunday, 8 November vs Aston Villa (H).
Luke Shaw
What happened: Luke Shaw suffered a knock against Tottenham and has not trained since.
What's been said: "Luke definitely won't be around this week and fit at that point," Carrick said earlier this week, all bit confirming that Shaw would not feature against Aston Villa.
Possible return date: Sunday, 22 November, vs Liverpool (A).
Marcus Rashford
What happened: Marcus Rashford hasn't played for United since the 2-0 loss against Atletico Madrid, having been withdrawn from matchday duties to recover from a hip issue picked up during the World Cup.
What's been said: Speaking on Monday afternoon, Carrick said of Rashford, "Marcus, we'll just have to see day by day how he keeps improving." The chances are that Rashford will not be rushed back to action.
Possible return date: Sunday, 22 November, vs Liverpool (A).
Manuel Ugarte
What happened: Manuel Ugarte suffered an ACL injury while playing for Uruguay at the World Cup and has begun rehabilitation after surgery.
What's been said: Reports at the time suggested his recovery from the injury could take around nine months, though the timeline will depend heavily on how well his rehabilitation goes.
Expected return date: Early 2027.
Tom Heaton
What happened: Tom Heaton has been absent since picking up a hamstring injury while facing Paris Saint-Germain in a pre-season friendly in August.
What's been said: There has been no update on his condition since.
Possible return date: N/A.
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