Manchester United will be without several key players including Luke Shaw, Manuel Ugarte and Amad Diallo for the trip to Fulham. The squad travels south sitting 13th in the Premier League with just four points from their first four matches.
Michael Carrick acknowledged the challenge, saying his side must avoid "cutting a beaten figure" after recent setbacks. The manager is expected to welcome back Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes to the starting lineup after they were rested for the midweek EFL Cup loss to Brighton. That 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford, despite goals from Shea Lacey and Mason Mount, extended a concerning run of form.
Injury concerns mount
Luke Shaw is ruled out with physical discomfort, while Manuel Ugarte faces a long-term absence with a cruciate ligament injury. Amad Diallo, Carlos Baleba and goalkeeper Tom Heaton are also sidelined. This leaves United's defensive and midfield options stretched as they prepare for a busy period.
Searching for consistency
United have won only one of their opening four league games and have conceded multiple goals in most fixtures this season. They have kept just one clean sheet in six matches across all competitions. Their away form is a particular worry, with a 2-0 loss at Hull City and a 2-2 draw at Everton already this campaign. Another failure to win at Craven Cottage would mean failing to win their first three top-flight away games for the second consecutive season.
Fulham's own struggles
The hosts present an opportunity, however. Fulham have taken just one point from their first four league games and sit 18th in the table. They will be missing defender Kenny Tete, who is following concussion protocol, and midfielder Tom Cairney due to a knee injury. United have a strong historical record at Craven Cottage, unbeaten in their last ten Premier League visits there since a 3-0 loss in December 2009. The last meeting between the sides ended in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford in March 2025.
Bruno Fernandes, the club's top scorer this season with three goals, will be central to United's hopes of turning their form around. The next fixture is away to Fulham on Sunday, 20 September. Check the full schedule on our fixtures page.
