Maguire, Shaw, Diallo: Man Utd injury latest and return dates as fresh blow confirmed ahead of Real Sociedad
Manchester United are sweating over the fitness of a number of key stars ahead of their trip to Real Sociedad
Ruben Amorim’s start to life at Manchester United went from bad to worse as his team failed to defend their FA Cup crown by falling to a round-of-16 defeat to Premier League rivals Fulham in another dismal performance in front of their own supporters.
United fell behind in first-half stoppage time when defender Calvin Bassey was left unmarked at the far post to head in from close range after a smart Rodrigo Muniz flick on from a corner. However, their captain Bruno Fernandes, who had been condemned for his lack of leadership by former captain Roy Keane, dragged his team back into the contest with a superb driven strike from the edge of the area.
Both sides failed to capitalise on key chances during extra time and the contest was ultimately decided by Fulham shot-stopper Bernd Leno, who produced a catalogue of excellent saves to help the London side to a penalty shoot-out victory as they dream of their first Wembley final since 1975.
The result, which certainly took its toll on an increasingly thin squad due to injuries, only increases the importance of United’s European campaign as they prepare to face off against a strong Real Sociedad side. United were without 10 senior stars for their clash with Fulham at the weekend, but will they be able to welcome back any big names for their crunch European tie? Here’s all you need to know.
When will Luke Shaw be back in action?
Altay Bayindir - out: Altay Bayindir, the hero in the penalty shoot-out against Arsenal, missed United’s FA Cup exit against Fulham and is still being assessed at this moment in time. Expected return date: Unknown.
Tom Heaton - out: Fellow back-up goalkeeper Tom Heaton is recovering from an unspecified injury, according to Ruben Amorim. He too is being assessed with a return date not yet determined. Expected return date: Unknown.
Luke Shaw - out: The England left-back has had another frustrating campaign and hasn’t been able to have a regular run in the team. His head coach has said: “Luke, just a little bit, one small issue in a different area from the last injury, so we'll try to be careful.” Expected return date: 01/04/2025.
Lisandro Martinez - out. Central defender Lisandro Martinez is out of action for the season with a long-term knee injury. Amorim has said: “Licha is a difficult situation. He's going to be out for a while. We don't know the extent of the injury, but it's an injury that is going to take time.” Expected return date: 01/01/2026.
Harry Maguire - doubt: Harry Maguire picked up a knock against Fulham and will be assessed ahead of the Real Sociedad contest. Expected return date: unknown.
Jonny Evans - doubt: The veteran has been struggling with a back issue over recent times and is still being assessed by the medical team at the club. Expected return date: unknown.
Patrick Dorgu - returns: Patrick Dorgu misses two more domestic games following his sending off against Ipswich Town. However, Dorgu is still available for both legs of the Europa League clash with Real Sociedad as the ban doesn’t fall under the UEFA bracket.
When will Kobbie Mainoo be back from injury?
Toby Collyer - out: One of the few positives in a bleak campaign has been the emergence of promising young midfielder Toby Collyer. However, his recent progress has been marred by injury difficulties. The 21-year-old is pushing for a return against Arsenal but the trip to Spain may just come too soon.
Amad Diallo - out: The leading candidate for Manchester United’s player of the season. Amad Diallo has been a shining light in a bleak campaign. However, he won’t play again this season due to a foot problem. “Amad is out for sure, I think, until the end of the season,” explained Ruben Amorim. Expected return date: 1/06/2025.
Mason Mount - out: The former Champions League winning Chelsea man has been in the treatment room with a thigh injury. I don't know the exact date, but it's going to be for long. And that’s it, it's part of football, and you continue.” Expected return date: Unknown.
Kobbie Mainoo - out: Last season’s breakout star Kobbie Mainoo is on the road to recovery from a muscular injury. He is expected to return in mid-March in a vital boost to Amorim’s midfield options. Expected return date: 16/03/2025.