Manchester United could receive a major boost when club football returns after the international break, with Carlos Baleba, Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt all closing in on their respective returns.
United have had to deal with several injury problems during the early part of the season, and the absence of key players has limited Michael Carrick’s options in different areas of the pitch.
With a three-week break providing additional recovery and training time, there is growing hope that some important players could become available again.
Carlos Baleba Could Change United’s Midfield
Carlos Baleba is one of the players United supporters have been waiting to see in action.
The midfielder arrived from Brighton during the summer but suffered an ankle injury that delayed his competitive debut. Carrick has previously spoken positively about what the Cameroon international can bring to the team, particularly in terms of his physical presence and the balance he can provide in midfield.
Baleba was back around the first-team group before the international break and was even included in the squad for the trip to Fulham, although he did not get onto the pitch.
His return could give United another option in the middle of the park, especially when games become physically demanding.
Amad Diallo Can Add More Threat In Attack
Amad Diallo is another player whose absence has been noticeable.
The Ivorian winger picked up an ankle injury before the start of the campaign and has yet to make his competitive appearance for United this season. His recovery has taken longer than initially hoped, with Carrick previously indicating that the winger was still some way from returning.
When fit, Amad gives United another player capable of carrying the ball, creating chances and causing problems in one-on-one situations.
His return would also give Carrick more options when selecting his attacking players, particularly during a busy period of fixtures.
De Ligt’s Return Could Strengthen The Defence
At the back, Matthijs de Ligt could also provide an important boost.
The Dutch defender has been out for an extended period after suffering a back problem that eventually required surgery. He has been gradually working his way back to full fitness and is now believed to be getting closer to a return.
De Ligt has not featured for United since November 2025, making his eventual comeback an important one for the team.
His experience and presence at centre-back could give United another option as Carrick looks to strengthen his defensive unit.
The International Break Could Come At The Right Time
For United, the timing of the international break could prove useful.
Rather than rushing players back before they are fully ready, the extended period gives Baleba, Amad and De Ligt more time to work on their fitness and prepare for competitive football.
United are scheduled to return against Tottenham on October 10, a match that could potentially see some of the injured players come back into contention.
Of course, injuries can always change the situation, so there is no guarantee that all three will be available immediately.
United Fans Will Be Hoping For A Stronger Squad
There is no doubt that having Baleba, Amad and De Ligt back would give Carrick more options.
Baleba could add physicality and balance in midfield, Amad could provide another attacking outlet, while De Ligt would add depth and experience to the defence.
United have had a difficult start to the campaign, and supporters will be hoping that the return of several first-team players can help change the mood around Old Trafford.
The coming weeks should provide a clearer picture of when all three players will be ready to return to action.
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