Manchester United's Injury Concerns Ahead of Fulham Clash

Manchester United head to Craven Cottage on Sunday carrying bruises and questions, their early-season stutter threatening to become something more serious.

Back-to-back setbacks — a chastening Manchester derby defeat followed by an EFL Cup exit to Brighton & Hove Albion in the space of four days — have left Michael Carrick under pressure to find a response. One win from four Premier League games has United marooned in 13th, already playing catch-up while others are finding their stride.

Carrick is expected to answer with the strongest side he can muster. The midweek cup collapse should trigger sweeping changes, with several first-choice names restored and fringe players stepping aside as United try to steady themselves in the league.

Injuries bite, but key figures return

The team sheet still comes with caveats. Carlos Baleba remains out with an ankle problem, joining longer-term absentees Manuel Ugarte (knee), Tom Heaton and Amad Diallo. Diallo has yet to feature this season after damaging his ankle in pre-season, a frustrating halt for a player many hoped would push for more minutes.

At the back, there is at least a glimmer of progress. Matthijs de Ligt is back in individual training as he continues his recovery from back surgery, though he has not yet rejoined full sessions and will not be rushed straight in.

One important return is expected on the left. Luke Shaw, who missed the defeats to Brighton and Manchester City with a minor muscular issue, is in line to reclaim his place at left-back ahead of Noussair Mazraoui. His presence should restore some balance to a defence that has looked brittle and disjointed.

Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez are set to form the central pairing, with Senne Lammens coming into goal. Diogo Dalot is likely to keep his spot at right-back, offering some continuity on that flank as Carrick rebuilds the spine of his side.

Midfield reshuffle and an attacking gamble

In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo is expected to step back in and displace Andrey Santos. The youngster’s composure on the ball and energy off it could be crucial if United are to wrest control in what is often a tight, tactical battle at Craven Cottage. Youri Tielemans should line up alongside him in a double pivot that blends industry with passing range.

Higher up the pitch, big calls loom. Marcus Rashford is at genuine risk of dropping out of the XI as Carrick looks to jolt his attack into life. Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo are all in line to start in support of Benjamin Sesko, who is pushing for his first Premier League start of the season.

Sesko’s inclusion would be a statement. A physical focal point, a runner in behind, and a different kind of threat to what United have shown so far. If Carrick is searching for a new spark, this is where he might find it.

Predicted Manchester United XI

Carrick is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1:

Senne Lammens; Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw; Kobbie Mainoo, Youri Tielemans; Bryan Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha; Benjamin Sesko.

Kick-off, TV details and the stakes

Fulham vs Manchester United kicks off at 16:30 on Sunday, 20 September 2026, in the Premier League. The game will be shown live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event.

United arrive under scrutiny, their season still young but already uneasy. Craven Cottage can be an unforgiving place when a team is fragile. This is more than just another away day — it’s an early test of character for Carrick’s side, and a chance to show whether this is a wobble or the start of something far more troubling.