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According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, Manchester United are dealing with several injury problems as Michael Carrick prepares his team for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Chelsea.
United’s recent form has been disappointing, with their 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth extending their winless run to eight matches across all competitions. Carrick must now manage his available players carefully as he looks to improve the team’s results.
Six players are currently facing fitness concerns ahead of the October 31 encounter.
Marcus Rashford
Rashford remains unavailable because of a persistent hip problem. The England international missed United’s Champions League match against Como and was also absent against Bournemouth. The club has not confirmed when he will return.
Kobbie Mainoo
Mainoo has missed four consecutive matches with a muscular injury sustained before the Champions League game against Atletico Madrid. Carrick has indicated that the midfielder is making progress and could need around ten more days to recover. He could return against Chelsea if he passes his fitness tests.
Luke Shaw
Shaw remains sidelined, creating difficulties at left-back. Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui and Ayden Heaven are possible alternatives. However, Shaw is expected to need more time to recover, making his availability for Saturday uncertain.
Patrick Dorgu
Dorgu suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Denmark against Wales in the UEFA Nations League. He was forced off after approximately 30 minutes and is expected to remain unavailable for several weeks. A November return appears possible.
Benjamin Sesko
Sesko has been struggling with a shin problem that has kept him out of United’s three most recent matches following the international break. His return date remains uncertain, leaving Carrick with fewer attacking options.
Manuel Ugarte
Ugarte faces the longest expected absence after suffering a serious ligament injury during Uruguay’s World Cup encounter against Spain. His recovery could continue into spring or summer 2027.
Mainoo appears to have the strongest chance of returning against Chelsea, although his participation will depend on his recovery.
Carrick must prepare alternative plans for the other injured players as United seek to end their winless run. Saturday’s match represents an important opportunity for the Red Devils to rebuild confidence and improve their Premier League position.