Manchester United fans face more worries as head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed that Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo will not play against Newcastle on Boxing Day. The duo joins several other absentees, leaving United with important gaps to fill.
Fernandes suffered an injury during United’s weekend loss at Aston Villa. He played through the first half but could not continue after halftime. Aston Villa won 2-0 thanks to a Morgan Rogers double.
Mainoo was injured in training the day before the Villa game. Amorim said Mainoo is recovering and could return faster than Fernandes. “No, not for this game. They are recovering. I don’t think it will take a lot of time. I think Kobbie will return faster than Bruno,” he explained.
The exact return date for Fernandes remains uncertain. “I don’t want to say. I have an idea, of course, but let’s see,” Amorim said when asked about the United captain’s recovery.
Since joining United in January 2020 from Sporting CP, Fernandes has been almost ever-present. The 31-year-old has missed just nine of 221 league games, often playing full matches. This season, he had played most games fully before the Villa setback.
The injury is another blow for Amorim, who is already missing Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Amad, all away at the Africa Cup of Nations. Fernandes has contributed five goals and seven assists this term, making his absence a significant concern.
United’s schedule is demanding. After Newcastle on Boxing Day, they face Wolves four days later, then away trips to Leeds and Burnley before the Manchester Derby against City on January 17. They also host Brighton in the FA Cup on January 11.
Casemiro will return for Boxing Day after missing the Villa game due to suspension. The Brazilian sat out just one match for accumulating yellow cards, so his presence will be crucial for United.
Young talents like Jack Fletcher are getting opportunities. Fletcher made his Premier League debut at Villa Park, and Amorim praised his performance. “We have other players. We need to maybe see different ways of playing. Jack did a very good job, and that’s why we need to give space to guys like him,” he said.
Lisandro Martinez, who played in midfield after coming off the bench at Villa, is another option. Manuel Ugarte could also continue, having impressed when given a rare start in central midfield.
Amorim also updated fans on other injuries. Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt missed the Villa game but are working on recovery. “They are not available for this one, but let’s see for the next one,” he added.
The Boxing Day clash against Newcastle will test United’s depth. With key players absent, Amorim may need to change tactics or rely on emerging talents.
Fernandes’ injury comes at a critical time, just before United face their city rivals. The captain’s leadership and creativity in midfield have been vital since his arrival, and the team will miss his influence on and off the pitch.
Fans are hoping Fernandes recovers quickly. His skill in scoring and assisting makes him irreplaceable in the short term. Meanwhile, Mainoo’s return could provide a boost in midfield options for Amorim.
United have to navigate several league games with limited resources. Injuries, suspensions, and AFCON call-ups make squad rotation more important than ever.
The team’s resilience will be tested over the next few weeks. Young players getting chances could be the key to United staying competitive in the Premier League.
Amorim’s cautious approach to player recovery shows a focus on long-term fitness. Rushing Fernandes or others back too soon could risk further injuries.
Fans will watch the Boxing Day match closely, analyzing how United cope without key players. The team’s strategy may change, with new midfield combinations and tactical adjustments.
The Manchester Derby looms in January, and Fernandes’ availability will be closely monitored. United cannot afford to lose another key player before this crucial fixture.
Amorim’s message is clear: patience and careful squad management are necessary. Players like Fletcher, Ugarte, and Martinez will have opportunities to shine.
This period could define United’s season, testing depth, strategy, and adaptability. The coming weeks will be crucial for Amorim as he balances injuries, suspensions, and AFCON absences.
