Michael Carrick faces a mounting selection crisis as Denmark’s Patrick Dorgu limps off and Portugal officials reveal captain Bruno Fernandes has been playing through "complicated" physical pain.
Manchester United have made a frustrating start to the 2026/27 season, picking up just two wins from their opening seven games across all competitions.
The Reds began with a defeat to Hull City before thrashing Ipswich Town 5-2, with Bruno Fernandes scoring a hat-trick. A 4-0 Champions League win over Sabah FK followed, but United have failed to build any momentum from those results.
A 2-2 draw with Everton was followed by home defeats to Manchester City and Brighton. Against Brighton, United surrendered a 2-0 lead before eventually losing on penalties and exiting the Carabao Cup.
Their final game before the international break ended in another draw, with Michael Carrick's side held to a 1-1 draw by Fulham. Matheus Cunha rescued a point with a late equaliser after Lisandro Martínez's own goal had given Fulham the lead.
Last week, some of United's stars played a few fixtures for their countries, although worrying updates have emerged surrounding captain Fernandes and left-winger Patrick Dorgu.
What's the latest on Dorgu?
Dorgu started for Denmark on the right wing during a 3-2 defeat against Norway last week and was praised for his performance at the time, although Brian Riemer reverted him to the left wing against Wales on Sunday evening.
After close to 30 minutes, the United forward had to be replaced after going down off the ball, with Stade de Reims winger Mohamed Daramy being substituted on.
Dorgu was then seen to head down the tunnel holding the back of his left thigh, which could be a cause for concern for United.
Speaking after the game, Danish manager Riemer admitted that Dorgu had suffered an injury and will now return to United for treatment.
“He’s suffered an injury and has to go home. We’ll have to call up a replacement,” he said. Further medical tests will reveal the extent of the problem.
What about Fernandes?
Another concern for United revolves around Fernandes, United's captain. Portugal manager Jorge Jesus revealed late last week that the 32-year-old has been carrying an injury in the last few weeks that was described as "complicated".
Speaking on Portugal's injuries, Jesus said: “The medical team identified these two players as the most concerning, Nuno Mendes could be available for the game.
“The other case [Fernandes] involves treatment and recovery time. He’s coming off an injury at United, and he told me he’s been playing with that pain for the last three games, which is hindering him.
“It was one of the factors that prevented Bruno from playing at his best against Wales.”
However, with the Portuguese magnifico, there is cause for optimism. Jesus went on to explain that the decision for Fernandes not to play against Norway was to make sure he is fully fit to play against Denmark later this week.
“I’ve already spoken to him and I prefer not to risk it in this game so he’s fully fit for the Denmark match,” Jesus confirmed.
While there is no doubt United will keep a close eye on developments, it's anticipated that Fernandes will not have any problems once he returns to Old Trafford at the beginning of next month.



