Manchester United travel to Bournemouth for their preparations with little room for error after a damaging run of results under Michael Carrick. Their 4-1 Champions League defeat against Como exposed familiar defensive problems, while injuries have left the manager short of reliable options across several positions.
United sit 13th in the Premier League after seven matches, collecting seven points from one win, four draws and two defeats. They have scored 10 goals and conceded 10 in the league, and their record of two victories in 11 matches across all competitions highlights the scale of their difficulties.
According to Sports Mole, several first-team players face fitness concerns ahead of the Bournemouth fixture. Carrick must assess the available options carefully, particularly with the attack struggling to maintain a consistent threat.
Manchester United injury list before Bournemouth
Benjamin Šeško remains a major concern. The Slovenian striker continues to struggle with a recurring shin injury and could miss matches until early 2027. Before his latest setback, he scored twice in six appearances across three competitions during 2026/27. His Premier League return included one goal in four substitute appearances and 80 minutes on the pitch.
Manuel Ugarte faces a lengthy absence after suffering a serious knee injury while representing Uruguay at the 2026 World Cup. Patrick Dorgu has joined the injury list with a hamstring problem sustained on international duty with Denmark.
Kobbie Mainoo is targeting a return around November 3 against Roma, while Luke Shaw could miss at least three matches before a possible comeback against Aston Villa on November 8.
Marcus Rashford remains a major doubt after missing the Como match with a hip problem. Lisandro Martínez needs further assessment following a thigh injury, leaving Carrick uncertain about his defensive options.
Ayden Heaven offers more encouraging news. The young defender could return after missing two matches through illness, although United must confirm his availability before kick-off.
Leny Yoro will return after serving his suspension in Europe, and United have no suspended players for the Bournemouth match.
Manchester United Injury News: How can Carrick replace Šeško’s attacking presence?
Šeško’s absence creates a tactical problem beyond the loss of one goalscorer. His height, movement and ability to challenge central defenders give United a direct outlet when opponents press high or crowd the midfield.
Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo offer different strengths, with both capable of carrying the ball, combining in tight spaces and attacking gaps behind defenders. However, neither provides the same natural aerial presence as the 6ft 5in Slovenian.
Carrick could use Cunha as a false nine, allowing Mbeumo and the supporting midfielders to make forward runs around him. That approach would encourage shorter combinations and help United move through central areas without relying on aerial duels.
The danger lies in leaving the penalty area empty. If Cunha drops deep and Mbeumo moves wide, United need Mainoo or another midfielder to attack the box consistently. With Mainoo injured, Carrick may have to adjust his midfield roles or use a more direct alternative.
United spent heavily during the summer, including reported fees of £65 million for Carlos Baleba, £48 million for Andrey Santos and £35 million for Youri Tielemans. Yet the club’s current shortage of attacking options shows why squad planning requires more than investment in midfield.
Against Bournemouth, Carrick must find a balance between keeping possession and putting enough players into scoring positions. Without Šeško, United need coordinated movement, quicker support around Cunha and greater responsibility from their midfield runners.
