Manchester United Team News: Baleba Out, Maguire and Dorgu in Race for Aston Villa
Manchester United have one problem solved, at least for now, and another few still hanging around. The 3-2 comeback win over Roma stopped the rot and took some of the heat off Michael Carrick, whose side have spent far too much of this season in 17th place. One result does not clean the slate, but it does change the mood.
Now comes Aston Villa at Old Trafford, and the team news matters because Carrick still has gaps to fill. Carlos Baleba is definitely out and not close. Carrick was clear enough when asked about the midfielder: “Carlos we don’t know exactly [the severity], but it’ll be a number of weeks yet. Definitely not this week and not over the international break, it will be a little bit longer yet.” That removes one option in central midfield and forces United to lean on what they have.
Baleba Absence Reshapes Midfield
Kobbie Mainoo is expected to keep his place, with Youri Tielemans likely to work alongside him. Bruno Fernandes should continue in the No 10 role, where he remains the one player who can still give United structure and edge in the final third. Tielemans facing his former club adds a little extra detail, though sentiment rarely wins matches.
Up front, Matheus Cunha has earned attention after his late brace against Roma. He should start again, with Bryan Mbeumo expected to lead the line while Benjamin Sesko remains sidelined until the new year with a shin problem.
Dorgu and Maguire Fitness Latest
Patrick Dorgu is doubtful, though there is at least some encouragement after his unexpected return to training before the Roma game. If he is fit enough, United gain a proper left-back and Diogo Dalot can move away from emergency duty on that side.
Harry Maguire is also a doubt after limping off late in midweek, but the expectation is that he will be available. Lisandro Martinez will not be, serving a one-match suspension after his red card at Chelsea.
Predicted Manchester United XI
Lammens; Yoro, Maguire, Heaven, Dalot; Tielemans, Mainoo; Lacey, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo
United have a chance to build momentum. That is all it is, a chance. They have wasted enough of them already.
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