According to a report by Metro on Sunday, November 1, 2026, Leny Yoro was one of the few positives for Manchester United in their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, with his performance at right-back giving Michael Carrick a possible solution to the club’s defensive problems.

The 20-year-old started in an unfamiliar position but grew more comfortable as the match progressed, showing attacking confidence while also carrying out his defensive duties against Chelsea’s dangerous forward line.

United suffered another setback as goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer secured victory for the home side.

Lisandro Martinez’s dismissal following his challenge on Wesley Fofana, as well as the penalty he conceded, made an already difficult afternoon even worse for Carrick.

However, Yoro’s performance was encouraging, particularly given the difficulties he has experienced since joining United.

The French defender has struggled to deliver consistent performances since arriving from Lille in 2024 for a reported £52 million, despite previously attracting interest from Real Madrid before choosing to move to Old Trafford.

He made 33 appearances during his first season at the club, but questions have continued over his development and whether he can establish himself as a regular starter.

His recent red card against Atletico Madrid had also increased the scrutiny surrounding his performances.

Carrick’s decision to use him on the right side of defence against Chelsea, however, produced a positive response.

Yoro showed confidence going forward, regularly supporting attacks and giving United another option on the right flank. He also maintained his defensive discipline throughout the contest.

The young defender completed 94 per cent of his passes, created two chances and made five passes into the attacking third.

He also recorded four line-breaking passes, demonstrating his ability to move possession forward rather than simply passing the ball across the backline.

Defensively, Yoro made three tackles, three clearances and one interception. He also recovered possession five times and won three duels.

Although his influence reduced after the break, his first-half display against Chelsea’s attacking players remained one of the few encouraging aspects of United’s performance.

At just 20, Yoro still has plenty of time to improve, especially with experienced defenders around him at Old Trafford.

His successful outing at right-back also raises the possibility of a longer-term positional change, with several established defenders having demonstrated their ability to move between central defence and full-back.

Arsenal’s Ben White and Jurrien Timber have shown the value of such versatility, while Jules Kounde, John Stones and Ronald Araujo are other examples of defenders who can operate in different positions.

For Manchester United, Yoro’s performance could give Carrick a reason to continue exploring the option rather than immediately returning the Frenchman to his previous role.

It remains to be seen whether he can maintain that level over several matches, but his display at Stamford Bridge has provided Carrick with another defensive option as he looks to improve the team’s balance.