Matthijs de Ligt
February 2026
Carrick confirmed De Ligt’s back problem has been slow to progress, leaving him still out and without a clear comeback timeline. Carrick said the nature of the back issue makes timing hard to pin down, but insisted De Ligt is moving in the right direction and “definitely improving.”
Kobbie Mainoo
February 2026
Lee Sharpe believes Mainoo’s struggles for minutes under Amorim may ultimately benefit him, as he rebuilds confidence and form under Carrick and re-enters England contention. After falling down the pecking order, Mainoo has returned to regular involvement since the January change in leadership, giving him a clearer platform to force a Tuchel recall
Kobbie Mainoo
February 2026
Manchester United have reportedly not opened new contract talks with Mainoo despite his return to the XI under Carrick and lingering uncertainty over his long-term commitment. After being sidelined under Amorim and reportedly considering a loan exit, Mainoo has re-entered the lineup; Carrick is deliberately limiting criticism to rebuild confidence while United retain leverage via an extension option.
Casemiro
February 2026
Casemiro is expected to leave Manchester United on a free and is reportedly keen on joining AC Milan, with MLS also monitoring his availability. United opted not to renew and publicly confirmed his departure; after a poor spell late under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim, Casemiro has played a key role in Carrick’s recent upturn, boosting his market appeal ahead of a final decision.
Morgan Gibbs-White
February 2026
United are reportedly tracking Gibbs-White and could consider triggering a £60m release clause, with Fernandes’ long-term future still being debated. Reports say United want replacements who fit a new wage structure, while outside voices have also floated Cole Palmer as an ideal Fernandes successor; Gibbs-White’s recent output for Forest keeps him on multiple clubs’ radars.
Lisandro Martínez
February 2026
Michael Carrick said Lisandro Martinez picked up a minor issue in training and was left out at Everton; United still won 1-0 and stayed in strong form. Carrick said it “doesn’t seem too bad,” with sources suggesting a calf problem that could sideline Martinez up to two weeks. Yoro started alongside Maguire and United kept a rare away league clean sheet, with Sesko scoring late to secure the points.
Lisandro Martínez
February 2026
Lisandro Martinez was pulled from the squad with a calf injury, with a short layoff expected. United sources said the issue could keep him out up to two weeks, ruling him out of Everton and likely Crystal Palace, with Newcastle “touch and go.” Yoro stepped into the lineup.
Leny Yoro
February 2026
Leny Yoro was banned from driving for six months and fined after being caught at 72mph in a 30mph zone, pleading guilty. The court issued a £666 fine plus costs and surcharge, with his lawyer saying he was rushing to take a friend to a railway station and apologising.
Benjamin Šeško
February 2026
Benjamin Sesko scored the winner at Everton and said he is fine not starting under Carrick, focusing on impact minutes rather than status. Sesko said his job is to help whenever he comes on, whether for five minutes or 90, and credited self-belief and teammate trust. The goal pushed United three points clear of Chelsea and Liverpool in the top-four race.
