Old Trafford Rocked: Late Injury Blow Stuns Man United Ahead of Tottenham Clash
Just as the momentum seemed unstoppable, Manchester United’s camp has been hit by a wave of uncertainty. As Michael Carrick’s rejuvenated side prepares to host Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford this afternoon (12:30 GMT), a final confirmation from the club’s medical department has sent ripples of concern through the fanbase.
While United have been the Premier League’s form team of 2026, this latest setback threatens to disrupt the rhythm of a side chasing its fourth consecutive victory.
The Medical Confirmation: Who is Out?
The “heartbreaking” news centers on a mix of long-term absences and a crucial late fitness failure. The club doctors have officially ruled out the following key figures:
* Matthijs de Ligt: The defensive anchor remains the biggest void. Carrick confirmed that while “Matta” is taking positive steps in his recovery from a persistent back injury, the Spurs clash has arrived “a little bit too soon.” He has now missed 13 matches in all competitions.
* Mason Mount: Despite hopes that he would return for this specific fixture, the midfielder has failed a late fitness test. Carrick noted that while Mount is “closer” than De Ligt, he won’t be risked today after suffering a knock in training last week.
* Patrick Dorgu: The breakout star of the wins against Manchester City and Arsenal is officially facing a long road back. Doctors have confirmed a serious hamstring tear that could sideline the dynamic Dane for up to 10 weeks.
The “Carrick Effect” Under Pressure
Since taking over as interim head coach, Michael Carrick has transformed United into a tactical powerhouse, moving the club up to 4th place in the Premier League. However, the loss of Dorgu’s energy and De Ligt’s aerial dominance puts immense pressure on the veteran pairing of Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martínez.
> “The boys have their feet on the ground,” Carrick stated in his pre-match briefing. “It’s a big challenge ahead, and we have to manage these setbacks as a collective.”
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Man United’s Predicted Battle Plan
With the confirmed absences, the medical team has given the “green light” to the rest of the squad. Here is how United are expected to line up to face Thomas Frank’s Spurs:
| Position | Player | Notes |
|—|—|—|
| Goalkeeper | Senne Lammens | The Belgian has been a “calm presence” since moving into the XI. |
| Defense | Dalot, Maguire, Martínez, Shaw | A back four that must stay disciplined against Spurs’ counter-attacks. |
| Midfield | Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo | The “Veteran & Prodigy” duo remains the heartbeat of the team. |
| Attack | Amad, Fernandes, Cunha | Bruno Fernandes currently leads the PL assist charts. |
| Forward | Benjamin Šeško / Mbeumo | Šeško is pushing for a start after his winner against Fulham. |
Why This Match Matters
Spurs arrive at Old Trafford in 14th place and winless in their last six league games, but they hold a psychological edge: United have failed to beat Tottenham in their last eight meetings. With Chelsea and Liverpool breathing down their necks, United cannot afford a slip-up, even with a depleted squad.
Will the Old Trafford faithful carry the team through another injury crisis, or will the missing stars be too much to overcome?
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