As Manchester United gears up for Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, Ruben Amorim faces a familiar headache as a treatment room is still packed with 10 players. While glimpses of hope emerge for some, others brace for long times on the sidelines.
Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro offer rare bright spots. Maguire, sidelined for four games with a “minor injury,” is tipped to return for Forest. Yoro, recovering from an ankle issue, is also expected to return shortly after the international break. Their comebacks couldn’t be timelier as United’s backline has leaned on 18-year-old Ayden Heaven, who himself dodged a bullet. After being stretchered off against Leicester, Heaven shed his protective boot and eyes an early April return.
Veterans Jonny Evans (18 games missed) and Tom Heaton remain out, with no definite return dates set. Backup keeper Altay Bayindir is already out for nine games and also stays sidelined without any return date confirmed. Suspension-lifted Patrick Dorgu returns, bolstering United’s left flank after a few impressive Europa League displays. His comeback offsets defensive woes to some extent, offering Amorim some flexibility.
Kobbie Mainoo’s absence with five missed games is soon expected to be over, as the Englishman is set to make a comeback ahead of the Forrest game. However, a return against Manchester City on April 6 is more likely than Forest. Mason Mount, who was on the bench on his last outing, adds depth to Amorim’s option in the midfield.
Long-Term Casualties
• Lisandro Martinez: ACL surgery post-February collapse rules him out until 2025.
• Amad Diallo: Ankle injury delays his return until May, with hopes he’ll feature toward the end of the season.
• Luke Shaw has not started in 13 months. Amorim insists he’ll be “ready soon,” but Forest comes too early.
With Premier League hopes dim as United sit 13th, the focus shifts on Europa glory. An injury-free squad post-April could define the season for Amorim and Manchester United if key players stay fit. Amorim’s update pre-Forest will clarify timelines, but one truth endures: United’s injury curse shows no mercy.