Manchester United head to the November international break with an unbeaten streak of five games.
Their recent resurgence has helped them climb to the seventh position in the Premier League table.
Their campaign will now resume on November 25 when they host Everton.
There is no time for manager Ruben Amorim to take a breather and he should work on these five things during this international break.
Injury issues
The Red Devils have been blessed with fewer injuries this campaign. This changed during the dramatic 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
Harry Maguire clutched his right hamstring, forcing Amorim to substitute him.
The manager later revealed that Casemiro was also withdrawn due to an injury concern.
A knee injury to Benjamin Sesko forced him to come off the pitch, leaving his side to play with 10 men as Amorim had already made his five substitutions.
It is new territory for the 40-year-old this season, and it will be interesting to see how he tackles this issue.
Winter transfer window
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Amorim and the recruitment team must already be strategising.
While blockbuster signings may be unlikely, smart and targeted additions could make all the difference in tightening weak areas.
The United hierarchy will also be monitoring Sesko’s injury situation closely.
The 22-year-old has withdrawn from Slovenia’s World Cup qualifiers, and further tests at Carrington will determine the severity of his issue.
A lack of European fixtures has meant several players have struggled for minutes this season, leaving them short of rhythm.
Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee have both been linked with potential loan exits in January, though the club are yet to make a final decision on their futures.
Make the defence robust
Despite the recent unbeaten run, United’s defence remains worryingly porous.
They have conceded two goals in each of their last three league games, exposing recurring flaws at set-pieces and on the flanks.
Only five teams have shipped more goals than United this season and all five are battling to avoid relegation.
Just one clean sheet in 11 games is an alarming statistic, and Amorim must use this break to tighten the backline with tactical discipline and defensive drills.
Academy stars who could break through
The upcoming festive period and FA Cup fixtures will offer opportunities for Amorim to reward some of the club’s most promising academy stars.
Chido Obi made his senior debut last season but has yet to feature under Amorim this term.
Shea Lacey has turned heads in training with his creativity and confidence on the ball.
Diego Leon has featured multiple times for the Under-21s since his summer transfer. His dazzling solo goal last month served as a timely reminder of his breathtaking talent.
Sekou Kone has returned from a horrific head injury and could soon push for a first-team role in midfield.
Planning for AFCON
The Africa Cup of Nations will take place between December 21, 2025 and January 18, 2026.
United could be without Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo, and Noussair Mazraoui, depending on how far their nations progress in the tournament.
Mbeumo and Diallo have been electric on the right flank, forming one of United’s most dynamic attacking partnerships.
Amorim must devise a Plan B to ensure his side does not lose its attacking momentum.
He may have to find temporary solutions within his squad or turn to Carrington for reinforcements.
Stats from Fotmob.com