Manchester United are facing a major challenge after captain Bruno Fernandes was forced off injured during their 2-1 Premier League defeat to Aston Villa.
The Portuguese midfielder was substituted at half-time after suffering a hamstring problem late in the first half. He did not return for the second period and was later seen moving slowly along the touchline, raising concerns over the seriousness of the injury.
Fernandes is expected to miss at least the Boxing Day clash against Newcastle United, with further matches also at risk as United await clarity on how long he will be sidelined.
The injury comes at a difficult time for head coach Ruben Amorim, whose squad is already stretched. Fernandes has been one of United’s most reliable players, missing very few games through injury since joining the club. This season, even while playing deeper, he has contributed goals and assists and remains central to United’s attacking play.
United now face a demanding run of fixtures, including league matches and an FA Cup tie with Brighton, followed by high-profile encounters against Manchester City and Arsenal.
The situation is made worse by several other absences. Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui are set to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations, while defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire remain sidelined. Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo also missed the Villa match with a calf issue and may not be available for the next game.
Casemiro returns from suspension, offering some relief, but options in midfield remain limited. Lisandro Martinez filled in after Fernandes went off, while 18-year-old Jack Fletcher made his senior debut from the bench.
With United slipping down the table and short on numbers, pressure is expected to grow ahead of the January transfer window. However, Amorim has maintained that the club will stick to its long-term plan rather than rushing into signings.
For now, United must find solutions without their captain as they prepare for a crucial and demanding period in the season.
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