Manchester United has prepared for its next match in the Champions League with training in England, but the absence of two key starters has generated uncertainty about the match against Atlético de Madrid at the Metropolitano. Manager Michael Carrick was without Kobee Mainoo and Luke Shaw in Monday's morning session, despite both having started Saturday's game against Tottenham. According to the club, the two players trained outside the main group, which raises doubts about their call-up for this Tuesday's duel.
Mainoo and Shaw, both with a history of regular involvement in the squad, stayed on the sidelines during the final practice. The absence is due to the club not including them in the session, although a specific injury has not been confirmed. Carrick's decision to keep them out of training may be linked to the need to assess their fitness ahead of the European competition. The absence of both players, who were part of the starting team in the match against Tottenham, adds pressure on the coaching staff to decide who will be available for the match.
Meanwhile, midfield defender Mathijs de Ligt did participate in the session, although he is still in the final phase of his recovery process after a recent injury. For their part, Patrick Dorgu, Noussair Mazraoui, Benjamin Sesko and Manuel Ugarte remain out of training, indicating that they are still out or in the rehabilitation process. The club has made it clear that these players are not ready for the competition and that their return will depend on their evolution.
Carrick also used the session to work with several youth players, including Harry Amass, Dan Armer, Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey. The inclusion of young talent in practice suggests a focus on continuity and preparation of the next generation of players, while maintaining team cohesion at a critical time in the season.
With the trip to Madrid still ahead, Manchester United must decide in the coming days who will be part of the squad for the Champions League match. The absence of Mainoo and Shaw, along with the absence of other players, raises questions about the final line-up. The British club will continue to evaluate the condition of its players before confirming the call-up, while Atlético de Madrid prepares to receive them at the Metropolitano.