Man United receive double injury boost ahead of Premier League return
Manchester United have received a welcome double injury boost after Carlos Baleba and Matthijs de Ligt returned to action during a behind-closed-doors friendly against Lausanne Sport.
The international break has brought its share of fitness concerns for Michael Carrick, but the return of the two players offered the United manager a rare positive development ahead of the Premier League’s return.
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United used the friendly against their fellow INEOS-owned side to give minutes to some players who remained at the club during the international window, while also allowing Baleba and De Ligt to step up their respective recoveries.
Baleba finally gets minutes for United
Baleba is yet to make his competitive debut for United following his move from Brighton in a deal worth up to £70 million.
The Cameroon international was named among the substitutes for the 1-1 draw at Fulham before the international break but was not introduced by Carrick.
The 22-year-old had previously been described by the United manager as “pushing to get back as quickly as possible”, and his appearance against Lausanne represents another important step in his recovery.
De Ligt also featured after spending almost a year away from competitive action.
The Dutch defender last played for United in November 2025 and underwent surgery on a persistent back problem in May, ruling him out of the summer World Cup.
After returning to first-team training in recent weeks, De Ligt took part in the friendly as he continues to work towards a competitive comeback.
United still dealing with several injuries
United’s injury situation remains far from straightforward, however, with several players either missing international duty or picking up problems during the break.
Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo withdrew from England duty before the window began, while Benjamin Šeško missed Slovenia’s camp because of a recurring shin problem.
Carrick was then dealt another blow when Patrick Dorgu suffered a hamstring issue after just 30 minutes against Wales.
Noussair Mazraoui also picked up an injury after an awkward challenge against Lesotho, with both players returning to Carrington for treatment.
United will now hope their recoveries progress quickly, with a Premier League meeting with Tottenham Hotspur next on the schedule.