Manchester United fans can finally breathe a little easier with the welcome news of two key first-team players closing in on full fitness.
This development comes just before the international break, providing a much-needed boost for the club, which has struggled to find form in the early stages of the Premier League season.
United’s rocky start has included tough losses to rivals like Liverpool, Tottenham, and West Ham, all of which led to Erik ten Hag’s dismissal as head coach. The Dutchman’s departure was compounded by a string of injuries, especially in defence, where United have looked vulnerable, conceding 12 goals in their first 10 matches and posting a disappointing -3 goal difference.
The backline has faced additional challenges, with new signing Matthijs de Ligt still trying to find his stride and veteran Jonny Evans playing more than expected due to the lack of fit alternatives. These defensive gaps have been difficult for United to fill, leading to inconsistent performances and moments of vulnerability at crucial junctures.
Midfield issues have also hurt United, particularly with the absence of young talent Kobbie Mainoo. The England youth international, who showed immense promise before suffering a muscle injury in October, has been missed, but is now on the brink of returning to action.
Advertisement
We’re on Social Media
Follow us on X
See more football highlights
In positive news for incoming manager Ruben Amorim, both Harry Maguire and young midfielder Toby Collyer have shown significant signs of recovery. The duo recently shared their rehabilitation progress on social media, giving fans a hopeful update as they prepare for their comeback.
Maguire, who hasn’t played since limping off in a goalless draw with Aston Villa, posted a cheerful update on Instagram from United’s Carrington training ground. The photo showed him and Collyer working out on exercise bikes with a caption reading, “Rehab partner” and “back soon,” signaling that they are nearing full fitness.
Collyer, at just 20 years old, has been sidelined since United’s emphatic 7-0 Carabao Cup win over Barnsley in September. His return would inject youthful energy and depth into the squad, providing Amorim with more options in a midfield that has been crying out for reinforcement.
Amorim, set to take the reins on Monday, will be eager to evaluate his squad during the upcoming international break. The return of Maguire and Collyer, alongside the progressing recoveries of Leny Yoro and Mainoo, should offer the Portuguese manager a better starting point as he looks to reshape a side underperforming despite significant investment from United’s INEOS-backed ownership.
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has been serving as interim manager, will oversee one last match against Leicester on Sunday. While it’s still uncertain whether the Dutch legend will remain at Old Trafford in some capacity, his leadership has provided a steadying hand during this turbulent period.
For Amorim, the task ahead is clear: bring stability, unlock the potential of new signings, and turn United back into a force in English football. With key players returning and fresh energy in the dugout, there’s a sense of cautious optimism as the club hopes to turn the tide post-international break.