Manchester United Hit by Double Midfield Blow Ahead of Boxing Day Clash

Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has confirmed that captain Bruno Fernandes and young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo will both miss the club's Boxing Day Premier League fixture against Newcastle United at Old Trafford.

Fernandes sustained a soft-tissue injury during the first half of United's 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on December 21, forcing him off at halftime. Amorim described the issue as one that will sideline the Portuguese international for multiple games, emphasising the challenge of replacing a player he previously called "impossible to replace."

Mainoo, meanwhile, picked up a calf problem in training ahead of the Villa match and has been ruled out for the Newcastle encounter. Amorim indicated that the 20-year-old England international is expected to recover quicker than Fernandes, though neither will feature on December 26.

The absences add to United's mounting injury concerns, with defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt also unavailable. Additionally, several players, including Amad Diallo, are absent due to international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Amorim stressed the need for the squad to adapt, stating in his pre-match press conference: "We have some problems, but I believe in this team. We will find solutions, no excuses."The match, the only Premier League fixture scheduled for Boxing Day in 2025, kicks off at 8pm GMT and represents a crucial opportunity for United to climb the table amid a congested festive period.