Manchester United have received a timely injury boost ahead of their Premier League meeting with Chelsea after Kobbie Mainoo returned to full training.

According to a report by Metro on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, Mainoo has resumed training with the first team after missing Manchester United's last four matches due to a thigh injury.

The midfielder could now be available for Saturday's lunchtime encounter against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, offering Michael Carrick a welcome boost as he attempts to turn around the club's disappointing campaign.

United head into the fixture under significant pressure following their 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford last weekend.

The result extended their winless run to eight matches in all competitions and left them 16th in the Premier League table.

Despite growing concerns over his position, Carrick is expected to remain in charge for the Chelsea fixture. However, another disappointing performance could increase the pressure on the United manager.

Mainoo's return to training provides Carrick with another midfield option as he looks to improve his team's performances against Xabi Alonso's Chelsea side.

However, United could still be without several key players for the trip to west London. Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford were not seen in first-team training, raising doubts about their availability for Saturday's match.

Benjamin Sesko and Patrick Dorgu also remain sidelined with longer-term injury problems, leaving Carrick with further selection concerns ahead of a crucial encounter.

Meanwhile, the United manager could consider restoring Bruno Fernandes to the starting line-up after dropping the club captain for the Bournemouth defeat.

Fernandes was left out following United's 4-1 Champions League loss to Como, having publicly questioned Carrick's tactics after the disappointing result.

Reports suggest that Carrick and Fernandes have since held one-to-one discussions, potentially opening the door for the midfielder to return to the starting XI against Chelsea.

Fernandes' possible reinstatement, alongside Mainoo's return, could strengthen United's options as they seek an improvement in form.