Old Trafford
Old Trafford
Manchester United’s defensive ability has taken an awkward turn during a season which may have cost Michael Carrick his job. The 2-0 Champions League defeat to Atlético Madrid on October 13 exposed familiar gaps, while a disciplinary blow added another problem before the 4-1 hammering by Como which Yoro missed.
Leny Yoro’s dismissal came in the 74th minute vs Atletico, after VAR judged that he had fouled Jonathan David as the last defender. United disputed the decision. In the 2026/27 campaign so far, the 20-year-old has made four Premier League appearances, totalling 261 minutes, and two Champions League appearances, playing 164 minutes before his dismissal. He has yet to score or assist in either competition.
His latest league outings brought a different challenge. Carrick used the Frenchman at right-back during the 0-3 home defeat to Bournemouth yesterday, after the away 1-1 draw with Leeds United on October 18, reflecting United’s need for cover rather than clear evidence that the club has lost faith in him. Carrick who is still in the job at United despite reports of his sacking likes Yoro.
🚨 𝗡𝗘𝗪: Michael Carrick has LEFT Manchester United’s training ground a few minutes ago. There is NO update regarding his sacking or staying. https://t.co/sJMbkldeDA
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX)
United have been linked with ex Chelsea, ex Newcastle and ex Bayern Munich managers amongst others. Yoro is naturally a centre-back, where his recovery pace, composure in possession and ability to defend space offer promise. At 6ft 1in, he has room to develop physically, although stronger forwards can test him in duels and aerial battles.
United paid Lille around £52 million for his signature in 2024, and his contract runs until June 2029. FBref lists his reported wage at approximately £120,000 a week. That investment makes his development particularly important, especially as United seek greater defensive stability.
The priority should be helping him settle into a consistent role, improve his strength and build partnerships with defenders such as Lisandro Martínez. Patience makes more sense than treating recent setbacks as evidence of a failed signing this early.
However, United’s plans could face a challenge from two European heavyweights. FootballDatabase.eu has reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, while Football365 has covered PSG’s scouting activity and the possibility of a return to French football.
Sports Mole has likewise reported Bayern’s interest, with Vincent Kompany’s side assessing longer-term options in central defence. PSG could view the France international as a future defensive leader, while Bayern have reason to study a young centre-back. Reports suggest a substantial offer could test United’s resolve, though no confirmed bid has emerged.
Should Manchester United entertain offers for Leny Yoro?
🚨🗣️ Carrick: “Leny [Yoro] is disappointed to have made a MISTAKE. “But he must not let it get him down, because he has a GREAT future ahead. “He’s going to be a TOP player”. ❤️ #MUFC https://t.co/ikK0ernrgx
— UtdTruthful (@Utdtruthful)
Yoro was culpable for one goal vs Bournemouth but any transfer offers should be rejected by United as his ceiling is so high. Yoro’s red card was costly, but one incident should not outweigh the qualities that persuaded United to spend £52 million on him. Nor should a temporary switch to right-back be mistaken for a verdict on his future at centre-back; Carrick has managed an unsettled defensive group, and versatility can help through injuries.
United need stability, and selling a 20-year-old defender before he has had a sustained run in his preferred position would weaken their planning. His pace suits a high defensive line, while his passing offers a route out when opponents press.
The club must demand better judgement in dangerous situations and help him add strength, but those are development tasks, not reasons to cash in. With a contract through 2029, United hold the stronger hand. PSG and Bayern may test that position, yet United should focus on coaching Yoro into the centre-back they bought him to become.