Mainoo, Shaw, Maguire: Manchester United injury news and latest return dates ahead of FC Porto clash
The latest Manchester United injury updates and potential return dates ahead of their Europa League clash with Porto
Manchester United suffered a humiliating defeat to Tottenham in the league last weekend, but they will be hoping to put that behind them as they return to the Europa League to take on FC Porto, with pressure mounting on manager Erik ten Hag by the minute.
The FA Cup win was meant to be the foundation on which this season was built, but so far, it's been an underwhelming start to the campaign. United drew against FC Twente and Crystal Palace before suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to Tottenham.
Ten Hag will hope for a response when they face FC Porto, though he will be missing key players for the game. Could a few return in time?
Below is the list of injured players and their potential return dates:
Luke Shaw
Shaw is yet to feature this season after returning from a muscle injury during England’s run to the Euro 2024 final, only to suffer a setback. There is no doubt he's a massive miss for Ten Hag, given his ability to play both as a central defender and a left-back.
Considering how long he's been out and his importance to the team, the club is unlikely to rush him back. He might only return later this month, perhaps after the international break.
Kobbie Mainoo
The midfielder headed straight down the tunnel on Sunday after being substituted in the first half following Bruno Fernandes' red card.
Speaking after the game, Ten Hag said regarding a potential injury: “I can't say at this moment.” Mainoo is likely to miss the game against Porto and possibly the weekend match against Aston Villa. His return date remains unknown for now.
Mason Mount
Mount has been incredibly unlucky with injuries since his big-money move from Chelsea to Manchester United. He made his return in the Tottenham game, only to suffer a head clash with Tottenham defender Dragusin. However, he later posted on Instagram that he was fine. He’s expected to return, if not on Thursday, then surely by the weekend.
Harry Maguire
Another defender having a tough start to the season due to injury. Maguire missed the Tottenham game due to a knock suffered in training. Ten Hag didn’t reveal much about his condition before or after the Spurs defeat. He is likely to miss the Porto trip, but we should know more by the weekend. He’s expected to return later this month.
Victor Lindelof
The Swede is another United defender who hasn't played this season, though he returned to training ahead of the Palace game after suffering a toe injury. His absence has been more due to injuries than poor performances. He’s expected to return to the squad later this month.
Tyrell Malacia
United sent Sergio Reguilon back to Tottenham after initially thinking Malacia was close to returning, but he suffered a setback and hasn't played in over a year. He is expected back soon, though.