Manchester United have endured a relentless injury crisis this season, with Michael Carrick repeatedly deprived of key players during a disastrous start to the campaign.

The problems began before a ball was kicked, with several important first-team players struggling for fitness.

Summer marquee signing Carlos Baleba arrived from Brighton carrying an ankle ligament injury, delaying his competitive debut until October.

The £70 million midfielder finally appeared against Tottenham Hotspur, impressing during his 31-minute cameo in the 1-1 draw.

Baleba completed 16 of his 18 passes, alongside two tackles and three interceptions, offering a glimpse of the physicality United had been missing.

However, the setbacks have continued elsewhere.

Benjamin Sesko has struggled with a shin problem, Patrick Dorgu suffered a hamstring injury on international duty, while Manuel Ugarte remains sidelined following cruciate ligament surgery.

Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo also sustained injuries against Tottenham, further limiting Carrick’s options.

Marcus Rashford has battled a persistent hip problem, leaving United without another attacking option ahead of Saturday’s Chelsea clash.

Despite finishing third last season, United have won just two of their opening 12 matches, with Sunday’s 3-0 Bournemouth defeat extending their winless run to eight games.

Now, another Manchester United attacker has officially made a long-awaited comeback after more than a year away.

Manchester United attacker returns after 390 days

Manchester United Women forward Celin Bizet Donnum has officially returned to competitive action after 390 days.

The Norwegian international entered Wednesday’s Subway Women’s Players Cup encounter against Burnley in the 61st minute, replacing captain Maya Le Tissier.

Bizet last appeared on 3 October 2025, playing 14 minutes against Chelsea before stepping away from football following her pregnancy announcement.

She welcomed her first child in June before returning to training in September.

The 25-year-old previously confirmed her recovery through an emotional Instagram update, writing: “Backkkkk.”

United highlighted the possibility of her return before kick-off, with the match broadcast live on MUTV.

The Red Devils beat Burnley 3-0 thanks to a brace from Lea Schuller and a goal from Ellen Wangerheim.

After joining from Tottenham in 2024, Bizet registered seven goals and eight assists across 37 appearances.

Her comeback represents an extraordinary personal milestone after more than 12 months away from competitive football.