Man Utd’s Injury Crisis Deepens: Latest on Cunha, Mount & Martinez Ahead of City Showdown

Cunha, Mount, Martinez – Man United Injury Update Under Rúben Amorim Ahead of Derby

Manchester United head coach Rúben Amorim faces a crucial fitness test as the club prepares for the Manchester derby against City on Sunday, September 14. The fitness of key players Matheus Cunha, Mason Mount, and Lisandro Martinez remains uncertain, posing a tactical dilemma ahead of one of the season’s biggest showdowns.

Matheus Cunha brings encouraging signs

Cunha, the summer signing from Wolves, looked sharp in preseason but was forced off after just 30–31 minutes in United’s 3-2 win over Burnley with a hamstring complaint. The setback sparked concern, leading to his withdrawal from Brazil’s squad during the international break .

Yet recent updates have sparked optimism. Cunha posted a gym photo and “The time is flying” on social media, suggesting a quicker recovery than expected . Sports outlets report United are “hopeful” he will be fit to face City .

Mason Mount still a concern

Mount, who also exited the Burnley game due to a similar muscular issue, remains under evaluation. His creativity and energy have been missed, and while Amorim will assess his progress leading up to the derby, expectation is that he remains questionable for selection .

Lisandro Martinez still out

Despite being a defensive cornerstone, Martinez has not featured recently due to injury. Reports remain murky surrounding his latest fitness status, with no definitive return timeline provided ahead of the derby.

Amorim’s balancing act

Rúben Amorim — appointed as United’s head coach in November 2024, following Erik ten Hag’s departure — is navigating a delicate balancing act. He must integrate summer signings like Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, while managing widespread fitness concerns and fluctuating team form . As the new framework under INEOS emphasizes “head coach” rather than traditional manager structures, every tactical and selection choice is under scrutiny .

What could the lineup look like?

Should Cunha and Mount remain unavailable, Amorim may opt for a reshaped attack. Options include promoting Kobbie Mainoo, starting Benjamin Šeško in a more central role, or utilizing Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes in creative positions .