Manchester United’s injury crisis is showing signs of easing as head coach Ruben Amorim prepares for a critical run-in, starting with a Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.
The Red Devils have been plagued by fitness issues all season, with their absentee list often hitting double figures, but recent developments offer hope.
Five first-team players were spotted back in training at Carrington on Friday, ahead of a busy April that includes the Manchester derby on April 6 and a Europa League quarter-final against Lyon.
Here’s the latest on United’s injury updates and return dates, including Amad Diallo, Kobbie Mainoo, and Ayden Heaven.
Amad Diallo, initially feared out for the season after damaging ankle ligaments in training last month, could defy expectations.
Amorim recently hinted at optimism, saying, “I don’t want to say anything definitive, but I have the hope to have Amad before the end of the season. We’ll see.”
The Ivorian’s swift recovery, teased on social media, suggests a possible return as early as May, offering a major boost to United’s attack, where he’s been a rare bright spot with nine goals this term.
Kobbie Mainoo, sidelined since early February with an unspecified injury, is also nearing a comeback. The England youngster missed Thomas Tuchel’s first senior squad but could be back post-international break, potentially for Forest or soon after, depending on his training progress.
Young defender Ayden Heaven, injured in a 2-1 loss at Leicester on March 16, was stretchered off and later seen in a protective boot. No firm timeline exists, but his absence adds to United’s defensive woes alongside long-term casualties like Lisandro Martinez (ACL, out for 2025).
Meanwhile, January signing Patrick Dorgu returns after a three-match ban, and Luke Shaw—limited to three substitute appearances in 13 months due to leg issues—might feature before summer. With Harry Maguire needing caution and others like Mason Mount edging closer, Amorim faces a delicate balancing act to salvage United’s season.
