Manchester United manager Michael Carrick celebrates after the match
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick celebrates after the match
Manchester United are looking to strengthen their options at left-back in January.
The Red Devils are hoping to build on Tuesday night's dramatic Champions League victory over Roma, which provided a much-needed lift following a difficult run of results.
However, injuries remain a concern at Old Trafford, with Carrick facing further problems despite his side's impressive European comeback.
Michael Carrick suffers fresh Man Utd injury blow after Roma win
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United recovered from a two-goal deficit to beat Roma 3-2, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice after Bruno Fernandes had sparked the comeback from the penalty spot.
Carrick was delighted with his players' response, but warned that the victory would only prove significant if they could maintain their momentum.
"It's one game, so it depends on what happens next. We've got to capitalise on that," he said.
"But tonight, the boys showed an awful lot. I thought we came out in the second half and, unfortunately, with Carlos [Baleba] having to go off, Youri [Tielemans] came on the pitch and I thought he was fantastic."
Baleba suffered a hamstring injury shortly after half-time, with Carrick admitting the initial signs were concerning.
"I haven't got any more news on Carlos at this stage but it's his hamstring. We'll have to assess what that looks like but, initially, it doesn't look great."
The midfielder joins an increasingly lengthy injury list, with Benjamin Sesko and Manuel Ugarte already facing extended spells on the sidelines.
Luke Shaw has also been unavailable, while Patrick Dorgu is working his way back from a thigh problem, leaving United short of options on the left.
Man Utd injuries Issue Potential return
Manuel Ugarte Knee injury 3 April 2027
Benjamin Sesko Calf/shin/heel injury 2 January 2027
Carlos Baleba Hamstring injury 2 December 2026
Luke Shaw Unspecified injury 22 November 2026
Lisandro Martinez Suspension 22 November 2026
Marcus Rashford Groin/hip/pelvic injury 8 November 2026
Patrick Dorgu Thigh injury 8 November 2026
With supporters already keen to see further reinforcements arrive, United's growing injury problems could increase the urgency of their January recruitment plans.
Man Utd want Rayan Aït-Nouri as personal terms no obstacle
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According to Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United are interested in signing Aït-Nouri from Manchester City in the winter transfer window.
The 25-year-old is reportedly open to leaving the Etihad Stadium, having struggled to establish himself as a regular starter since joining City from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2025.
Crucially, Plettenberg reports that personal terms are as good as done, suggesting Aït-Nouri would be receptive to a switch across Manchester.
However, the biggest complication is likely to be securing an agreement with City, given the fierce rivalry between the two clubs.
The Algeria international could provide immediate competition for Shaw and Dorgu, while his ability to operate further forward would offer Carrick additional tactical flexibility.
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Rayan Aït-Nouri was "phenomenal" during Wolves spell
Wolverhampton Wanderers' Rayan Ait-Nouri
Wolverhampton Wanderers' Rayan Ait-Nouri
Although opportunities have been limited at City, Aït-Nouri previously established himself as one of the Premier League's most exciting attacking full-backs during his time at Wolves.
The Algerian recorded 12 goals and 19 assists in 157 appearances across all competitions, demonstrating his ability to contribute in the final third.
Speaking after his debut, The Athletic journalist Tim Spiers was full of praise for a player he predicted a big future for.
"Ait-Nouri was phenomenal. I know it's only one game and he's a kid, and he got a lot of space at times, but he played with such enthusiasm and really helped stretch that game out on the left."
Spiers highlighted how Aït-Nouri's positioning helped create opportunities for his teammates, even when he was not directly involved in possession.
For United, those qualities could make him an appealing option as Carrick looks to improve his squad's attacking output without sacrificing depth at the back.