Man United injury latest: Patrick Dorgu, Matthjis De Ligt and more

Man United Injuries Update as Momentum Builds Under Carrick

Manchester United head into this weekend’s Premier League clash with Fulham with renewed belief, fresh energy and a growing sense that something has shifted at Old Trafford. Two statement wins, first against Manchester City and then away at Arsenal, have transformed both mood and league position. Yet as optimism grows, so too does the injury list, threatening to complicate what has become a promising start to 2026.

Michael Carrick’s early impact has been immediate and striking. A derby victory over City set the tone, but it was the 3-2 win at the Emirates Stadium that truly announced United’s revival. Goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha made them the first visiting side to win there this season. Coupled with Liverpool’s defeat at Bournemouth, United now sit fourth in the Premier League table.

As attention turns to Fulham, the conversation is no longer only about form and fixtures. Man United injuries are beginning to shape selection decisions and could influence how sustainable this surge proves to be.

Dorgu blow threatens attacking rhythm

Patrick Dorgu has been one of the defining figures of Carrick’s early reign. His pace, directness and growing confidence have added a new dimension to United’s forward play. That is why his late withdrawal against Arsenal felt significant.

The Denmark international was forced off after pulling up while chasing a long ball, clutching his right hamstring before being replaced. Initially, Carrick attempted to downplay the severity of the issue.

“He came off with hopefully a little bit of cramp, but hopefully it’s nothing worse,” Carrick said.

“He ended up coming off but I think it just shows what he put in with his performance. But yeah absolutely delighted for him, just hope he’s not too bad.”

Pressed further, Carrick added: “At this stage it’s hard to tell. We’ll just have to wait and see but for sure we’re hoping that it’s not too bad.”

Subsequent reports, however, suggest a more serious outcome. Dorgu is now expected to miss around ten weeks with a hamstring injury, a significant setback that could rule him out until April. For a player who had quickly become central to United’s attacking balance, this represents a major disruption.

Potential return date: April 2026

De Ligt recovery slows defensive stability

Matthijs de Ligt’s absence has quietly stretched on, removing a pillar of experience and authority from United’s back line. The Dutch defender has not featured since the 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at the end of November, missing 11 matches across all competitions due to a lower back problem.

Carrick confirmed that De Ligt suffered a slight delay in his recovery, although he remains optimistic about a return in the near future.

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“He had a bit of setback. Well, not really a setback, before I arrived. [It was] only small but he was a little bit slower than we would have liked.

“He is getting closer and hopefully in the next couple of weeks he will be back and around it.”

With United climbing the table, reintegrating De Ligt could prove vital in sustaining defensive consistency through a demanding period.

Potential return date: February

Zirkzee nearing selection return

Joshua Zirkzee has also been absent from Carrick’s first two matchday squads due to a muscular issue. The forward has yet to feature under the new head coach, but his return is expected to be relatively swift.

Like De Ligt, Zirkzee is targeting a comeback within the next fortnight. His availability would offer Carrick greater depth in attack, particularly with Dorgu now sidelined for an extended spell.

Potential return date: February

For now, Man United injuries remain the key variable in a story that has otherwise been defined by resurgence. Carrick has given United belief and momentum, but how well they navigate this period without key figures may determine whether this revival becomes something more lasting.