Manchester United have been dealt an unwelcome blow just as momentum was beginning to build, with interim head coach Michael Carrick confirming that Patrick Dorgu is set to spend time on the sidelines following a hamstring injury. The setback comes at a frustrating moment for the Red Devils, who have shown signs of improvement since Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, making the timing of the injury particularly painful for both staff and supporters.
Dorgu picked up the issue during United’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium last weekend. While there was initial optimism that the problem was minor, Carrick has now revealed that the injury is more serious than first feared, although a precise return date remains unclear.
United lose key figure at a crucial moment
The 21-year-old has been one of United’s most eye-catching performers in recent weeks, flourishing under Carrick’s tactical approach. Deployed with greater freedom down the flank, Dorgu has thrived in an advanced wing-back role, regularly driving forward and offering attacking threat as well as defensive energy.
His impact against Arsenal underlined his growing importance. Not only did he play a key role throughout the contest, but his stunning long-range effort proved pivotal, igniting United’s comeback and shifting the momentum of the match. Unfortunately, his afternoon ended on a sour note when he pulled up late on and was forced to leave the field.
Early hopes suggested the issue might have been cramp, but further checks quickly ruled that out. Reports have since indicated that the Denmark international could be sidelined for as long as 10 weeks, a potential absence that would represent a significant disruption to Carrick’s plans.
Carrick delivers disappointing update
Speaking to the media ahead of United’s weekend fixture, Carrick confirmed that Dorgu will be unavailable for an extended period, though he stopped short of committing to a definitive timeline.
“Unfortunately, Pat is going to be out for a while,” Carrick explained. “We’re still assessing exactly how long that will be, but it’s not something that’s going to be resolved immediately.”
The interim boss admitted the situation was particularly disheartening given the defender’s recent form and confidence.
“He’s had such a strong couple of weeks,” Carrick continued. “At first, we weren’t sure if it was just a cramp or something more serious, but it’s leaning more toward the serious side. It’s disappointing for everyone, especially for Pat, because he’s in such a good place right now. But that’s football, and our focus is on getting him back fit as soon as possible.”
Defensive options stretched further
United are already preparing for life without Dorgu, starting with Fulham’s visit to Old Trafford this weekend. His absence further complicates matters for Carrick, who is already dealing with a stretched defensive unit.
Matthijs de Ligt has also been ruled out of the Fulham clash, leaving United short of options at the back. The double setback will likely force Carrick to reshuffle his defensive setup, potentially handing opportunities to squad players who have featured less prominently in recent weeks.
There was at least some encouraging news on the injury front. Joshua Zirkzee has returned to training and could be in contention to make his first appearance under Carrick.
“Josh has been back on the training pitch this week, which is really positive,” Carrick said. “He’s only been out a short time, but it’s his first proper training with us since we arrived, so it’s great to have him available again.”
Fulham pose a stern test at Old Trafford
United’s clash with Fulham will be anything but straightforward. Marco Silva’s side currently sits seventh in the Premier League and has built a reputation this season for troubling top teams, regularly taking points from members of the traditional “big six.”
Carrick has been quick to stress that his players cannot afford complacency, regardless of home advantage.
“The lads are in a good place mentally,” he said. “But this is a tough challenge. Fulham are a really well-organised team, and Marco has done an excellent job with them. Being at home doesn’t guarantee anything. If anyone thinks otherwise, that’s completely wrong.”
Eyes on European qualification
Since Amorim’s departure, there has been a noticeable shift in mood around Old Trafford. Performances have improved, confidence has returned, and belief is growing that a push for Champions League qualification is achievable. With no European distractions for the remainder of the season, United have a clear focus and a genuine opportunity to climb the table.
Carrick, however, remains cautious. The former midfielder is determined to take things one game at a time as he works to steady the ship and restore United’s standing among Europe’s elite. Losing Dorgu is undoubtedly a setback, but the interim manager will be hoping his squad can adapt, maintain momentum, and keep their European ambitions firmly alive.
