Patrick Dorgu in training, pictured in United’s Aston Villa team-news update. Photo: Manchester United. Landscape crop and corner branding added.
Manchester United will assess Patrick Dorgu before Sunday’s home game against Aston Villa. They must also cope without suspended Lisandro Martinez and injured Carlos Baleba.
Michael Carrick’s side host Villa at Old Trafford at 16:30 GMT on 8 November. They are looking to follow their 3-2 Champions League comeback against Roma with another win.
United team news: Dorgu back in limited training
In United’s official pre-match update, Carrick said Dorgu had completed only a small amount of training and would need careful management after his hamstring problems.
“He’s slowly getting back with us, so we’ll have to see if he can be involved at the weekend or not,” the manager said.
That leaves Dorgu’s involvement uncertain rather than confirming a return to the squad or a place in the starting line-up.
Martinez banned and Baleba absent
Martinez will serve a one-match suspension following his red card against Chelsea. He appeared from the bench against Roma, when Ayden Heaven started alongside Harry Maguire.
Matthijs de Ligt also made a late substitute appearance in that match, his second outing since regaining fitness.
Baleba is unavailable after suffering a hamstring problem in midweek. United’s update also lists Luke Shaw, Manuel Ugarte, Marcus Rashford and Benjamin Sesko among the players who have been on the sidelines.
Carrick wants United to build on Roma comeback
In a further section of his pre-match press conference, Carrick warned that one victory does not make the next game easier.
He praised Matheus Cunha’s performance against Roma, saying the forward can play across the front line and benefits from freedom in his role.
United are preparing for their final match before the international break. Carrick said the players who remain with the club will train next week, with the detailed plans depending on who is available.
Villa have a suspension of their own
For Villa, Matty Cash is suspended after collecting five yellow cards. Villa’s pre-match update said Aaron Wan-Bissaka was close to returning. It ruled out Amadou Onana and Matteo Ruggeri.
These are the clubs’ pre-match availability updates, not confirmed starting teams. Sources: United’s team news and Carrick’s press conference.
Watch Carrick’s Aston Villa press conference
Manchester United’s full pre-match press conference from 6 November is below. Carrick discusses Dorgu’s limited return to training, Baleba’s absence and the need to build on the Roma comeback. These are his pre-match comments, not confirmation of the team selected on Sunday.
Video: Manchester United / YouTube. Pre-Aston Villa press conference, 6 November 2026.
