According to a report by London Evening Standard on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Manchester United could have two key players back in contention when they welcome Aston Villa to Old Trafford for their Premier League meeting on Sunday. Michael Carrick will be hoping to use the opportunity to secure consecutive victories and improve his team's position.

Manchester United boosted their confidence on Tuesday with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over Roma in the Champions League. The result ended their frustrating run without a win and provided some relief for Carrick after the club's difficult beginning to the season.

Matheus Cunha delivered an outstanding performance by finding the net twice late in the match, while captain Bruno Fernandes scored from the penalty spot to help United complete their comeback.

The Red Devils had fallen to 17th place in the Premier League standings following their disappointing results. However, their success against Roma has raised hopes that they can turn their campaign around.

Ahead of the Aston Villa fixture, Marcus Rashford and Patrick Dorgu are potential returnees. Rashford is working his way back from a hip injury, while Dorgu has resumed training after recovering from a hamstring problem picked up during international duty.

Having Dorgu available would be valuable for Carrick, especially because the defender could provide a natural option at left-back. Dalot has been covering that position in recent matches.

Unfortunately, Lisandro Martinez will not be available on Sunday. The Argentine defender is suspended after receiving a red card in United's previous Premier League defeat against Chelsea.

Senne Lammens is expected to start in goal, while Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire are strong candidates to feature in central defence. Ayden Heaven and Diogo Dalot could complete the backline, although Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui remain alternative choices.

United also have concerns in midfield, with Carlos Baleba facing a race against time after suffering a hamstring injury against Roma. Kobbie Mainoo is expected to retain his position, while Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos are the leading options to partner him.

Fernandes should occupy the attacking midfield position, with Amad Diallo expected to feature on the right and Cunha on the left. Rashford could be named among the substitutes if he receives medical clearance.

Bryan Mbeumo is likely to lead the forward line in the absence of Benjamin Sesko, who is recovering from a shin injury and is not expected to return until the new year.

Predicted Manchester United Starting XI (4-2-3-1): Lammens; Yoro, Maguire, Heaven, Dalot; Tielemans, Mainoo; Amad, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo.