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According to a report by Evening Standard on Thursday October 22, 2026, Manchester United are dealing with several injury concerns as they prepare for their upcoming Premier League fixtures, with Marcus Rashford, Lisandro Martinez and Kobbie Mainoo among the players whose availability remains uncertain.
Michael Carrick’s side are desperate to return to winning ways after suffering a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League. With pressure mounting on the manager, the return of key players could provide a much-needed boost as United look to turn their season around.
Rashford has been struggling with a hip problem that forced him to miss Manchester United’s trip to Como. Carrick confirmed that the forward was still experiencing discomfort, leaving his return date uncertain.
The England international’s absence has limited United’s attacking options, particularly their ability to threaten opponents with pace and direct running. The club will hope Rashford can recover soon, although no specific timeframe has been established for his comeback.
Lisandro Martinez, meanwhile, picked up a thigh problem during Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United. The Argentine defender was substituted at half-time after experiencing discomfort, raising concerns about his availability for the next match.
However, Carrick offered some encouragement by describing the injury as “not that bad”. Martinez could therefore return for United’s home clash against Bournemouth on October 25, provided he makes sufficient progress in his recovery.
His potential return would be a significant boost for United’s defence. Martinez brings aggression, leadership and composure in possession, qualities that could help the team improve its defensive organisation following recent disappointing performances.
Kobbie Mainoo has also been sidelined, missing United’s last three matches because of an injury whose exact nature has not been publicly disclosed.
Carrick revealed that the midfielder would be unavailable for approximately another 10 days, putting him in a race to be fit for the Premier League meeting with Chelsea on October 31.
Mainoo’s absence has reduced United’s options in midfield at a time when the team has struggled to control matches consistently. His ability to retain possession, link defence with attack and remain composed under pressure could prove valuable when he returns.
For now, Manchester United will continue to monitor all three players as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures. Martinez appears to have the clearest chance of returning soon, while Rashford’s recovery remains uncertain and Mainoo is targeting a potential comeback against Chelsea.