Manchester United face a daunting trip to Elland Road on Sunday as they prepare to take on bitter rivals Leeds United in the Premier League.
The Red Devils are desperately searching for a victory, having gone five games without a win.
It has been a disastrous start to the 2026–27 campaign for United, and Leeds will be eager to pile further pressure on head coach Michael Carrick.
The 45-year-old could also be left with a major defensive headache, with two key defenders in doubt ahead of this crucial encounter.
Luke Shaw missed United’s midweek Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid through injury, leaving Carrick anxiously waiting for an update on his fitness.
Lisandro Martinez launched a scathing attack on technical director Jason Wilcox during a post-match interview following United’s 2-0 defeat to Atletico on Tuesday.
The Argentine did not mince his words, accusing the club’s leadership of failing to provide Carrick with the right reinforcements during the summer transfer window.
Martinez could now face disciplinary action for his public outburst, with a potential fine or even a suspension on the cards.
If both defenders are unavailable against Leeds, Carrick will be forced to reshuffle his backline at a time when his side can ill afford another setback.
A new-look back four could be unleashed
Leny Yoro could replace Martinez at the heart of defence and partner Harry Maguire, who has been a regular starter in the Premier League this season.
Diogo Dalot is an automatic starter at right-back after Noussair Mazraoui suffered a back injury during the October international break.
With the absence of Patrick Dorgu and the uncertainty around Shaw, Carrick could be forced to start Ayden Heaven again at left-back.
The 20-year-old delivered an assured display in the unfamiliar role against Atletico.
However, Heaven is primarily a centre-back, and it would be unfair to expect him to offer the same attacking threat in the final third as a natural full-back.
Carrick could instead ask the youngster to prioritise his defensive duties, while allowing Dalot greater freedom to surge forward and provide width on the opposite flank.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com