Manchester United head into the Manchester derby with a rough hand. Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Diogo Dalot all dropped out due to injury. Manager Ruben Amorim confirmed the trio will miss the match at the Etihad. This adds to the worry already hanging over the club.
Manchester United : Key Names Missing
Cunha and Mount have hurt their hamstrings in the Burnley game. This was before the international break. Diogo Dalot has a muscle issue picked up while with Portugal. None of them can and will take part in this derby. Amorim said he does not know exactly how long each player will be out.
"We need those guys to be a very, very competitive team, but we have very good players who are eager to play"
Ruben Amorim confirms Matheus Cunha, Diogo Dalot and Mason Mount will miss the Manchester derby ⚔️ pic.twitter.com/JVjBvDJwyp
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) September 12, 2025
Goalkeeper Decision Holds Steady
Even though the Red Devils’ signed Senne Lammens, Amorim has stuck with Altay Bayindir in goal. Bayindir will start at the Etihad despite various questions being raised on his skills for the big games. The decision shows Amorim is leaning on experience in big moments.
Backups Get Their Chance
These injuries leave gaps. United will need others to step up. Benjamin Sesko might come in up front for Cunha. Patrick Dorgu could cover Dalot’s spot on the wing-back. Kobbie Mainoo may feature more in midfield in place of Mount.
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What This Means for Manchester United
United’s depth will be tested. The derby will stretch their options in every position. Tactics will matter more than ever. Amorim must make changes without losing shape or spirit. The mental side could decide more than the physical on derby day.
Author’s Insight
A derby demands not just skill but backbone. United lose key players when they are most needed, but in those loses lie chances — for others, for surprises. If Amorim balances risk and trust, and if the backups believe, this crisis could become a moment of strength. The Etihad might not feel like home, but resilience often wins respect.