Mainoo's injury has come at an unfortunate time for the young midfielder. With Fernandes sidelined, the situation presented an opportunity for Mainoo to be reintegrated into the starting XI following rumors of discontent from the Englishman. However, as luck would have it, Mainoo sustained a calf injury that ruled him out shortly before the Villa game. Amorim has stated that Mainoo is expected to recover sooner than Fernandes, which could hand the academy-graduate a chance. Potential return: Early January 2026 (Image: Getty) 1 of 3
The 32-year-old defender has been out of action since early November, when he was forced off in United's 2-2 draw against Tottenham. Since then, Maguire has been sidelined with a thigh injury but is now closing in on a return to the squad. Amorim said on December 24: "We are still working with them [Maguire and Matthijs De Ligt] They are not available for this one, but let’s see for the next one. Potential return: December 30 vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (Image: Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images) 2 of 3
Like Maguire, De Ligt is also reportedly close to returning to Amorim's squad. The Dutchman has been sidelined with a back injury he began to feel after the Crystal Palace game a few weeks ago. The United boss has made it clear that he is handling De Ligt carefully to avoid reigniting the injury. Potential return: December 30 vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (Image: 2025 Manchester United FC) 3 of 3