Captain Harry Maguire is set to receive an additional one-match ban after the The Football Association upheld a misconduct charge against him for swearing at a fourth official.
The incident followed his red card during last month’s defeat to Bournemouth, adding further punishment to his existing suspension.
Defensive crisis deepens for United
The timing could not be worse for United, who are already without Lisandro Martínez.
The defender is expected to serve a three-match ban after his controversial red card against Leeds United, leaving manager Michael Carrick short of experienced options at the back.
With Matthijs de Ligt still sidelined through injury, United could be forced to rely on an inexperienced centre-back pairing of Leny Yoro, 20, and 19-year-old Ayden Heaven.
The duo have struggled when deployed together this season, with the team conceding heavily in previous appearances, reports Daily Mail.
United’s defensive fragility was exposed again in their recent loss, where Dominic Calvert-Lewin caused persistent problems, contributing to key moments that led to goals and Martínez’s dismissal.
Carrick has attempted to remain positive despite the setbacks, insisting the squad must step up during a difficult period.
However, with crucial fixtures ahead and Champions League qualification still at stake, the mounting suspensions could significantly impact United’s season.
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