Nov 2, 2026 1:58 PM
As Manchester United battles a dismal run of form, Michael Carrick clarifies Leny Yoro’s fitness concerns and provides key squad updates ahead of a high-stakes Roma clash.
The situation is growing increasingly bleak for Manchester United, as Michael Carrick prepares his side for a crucial Champions League clash against AS Roma at Old Trafford on Tuesday evening.
United's struggles have extended beyond domestic competition, with the Red Devils languishing in 17th place in the Premier League and an even worse 20th in the Champions League league phase.
A victory over Sabah FK was followed by defeats to Atletico Madrid and Como, while Roma arrive in Manchester unbeaten in Serie A this season. United have also endured a miserable run of form, with their win against Sabah marking their last victory in any competition. Since then, they have recorded three draws and six defeats.
Despite the mounting pressure, Carrick is reportedly still backed by United's hierarchy to turn the season around. However, the upcoming international break could present an ideal opportunity for the club to make a managerial change, with Eddie Howe emerging as the reported leading candidate to replace the current head coach.
Carrick issues United injury latest
Earlier on Monday, the club confirmed that Patrick Dorgu has returned to the training squad, while Amad was with the team despite suffering an injury against Chelsea on Saturday afternoon.
Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw, who have missed the last few fixtures with injury, were not with the squad, wile Benjamin Šeško, Manuel UGarte, and Tom Heaton continue to undergo treatment for longer-term issues.
Speaking on Monday afternoon, the United boss confirmed that althoug Dorgu was with the squad, he would not be involved against Roma.
"Yeah, it was his first day with the group, great to have him back, but he won't be involved tomorrow," Carrick said of the Dane. "We'll see how he progresses during the week."
When asked about the status of Leny Yoro, who was spotted wearing a strapping on his knee during Monday's training sessions, Carrick confirmed it was a minor issue being managed, not a major concern.
"Leny's is just a bit of a tendon [issue]," he said. "So it's one of those that kind of comes and goes, but he's been managing it, and he's been fine.
"I think he's been fantastic, to be honest. I think he's one of our best players, and he has been since he came back on the first day of pre-season. He's impressed us all a lot.
"So I've been delighted with Leny and his performances, and he keeps doing the right thing. He's on a really good path for me."
On Rashford and Shaw, Carrick said, "Luke definitely won't be around this week and fit at that point. Marcus, we'll just have to see day by day how he keeps improving."
Carrick not questioning Martínez's commitment
Amid continued turbulent results, Carrick was also asked about Lisandro Martínez, who has been a major culprit for the club's poor form, with multiple mistakes leading to goals and, in particular, a sending-off against Chelsea, a key issue.
United have gone nine games without a win, sitting far below expectations in the Premier League and Champions League, as fans grow increasingly disillusioned with the club's current project.
Questions have been raised about whether Martínez, whose contract expires in the summer, still has enough commitment to play and start for United. However, when Carrick was asked if he had concerns, the United boss dismissed them.
"No, I've got no concerns about commitment at all," Carrick asserted. Things happen in football.
"Sometimes you do things, sometimes you make a decision, sometimes you make mistakes, sometimes it goes well for you, you know. But the commitment is not an issue for sure."
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