Man United handed major De Ligt boost as City suffer Semenyo blow

An injury crisis is sweeping through both sides of Manchester, plunging both clubs into a severe squad selection crisis.

Crucially, Manchester United have received a massive boost with centre-back Matthijs de Ligt ready to return after 11 months on the sidelines, though they remain without seven other key players. Meanwhile, although Manchester City welcome back star striker Erling Haaland, they have suffered a major blow with winger Antoine Semenyo ruled out for the next two months.

Man United handed major De Ligt boost amid injury crisis

Significantly, the return of Matthijs de Ligt after 11 months out with a back injury provides a timely boost to Manchester United's depleted defence. The Dutch centre-back has fully recovered and is ready to start immediately, easing their defensive selection headache.

However, the Red Devils remain in the grip of a severe selection crisis with seven other key players sidelined through injury or illness, including Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Ayden Heaven, Marcus Rashford, Benjamin Sesko, Manuel Ugarte, Patrick Dorgu, and Kobbie Mainoo. The midfield shortage is particularly acute, with teenage starlet Kobbie Mainoo expected to be out for at least another 10 days.

Manchester City welcome back Erling Haaland but lose Antoine Semenyo

Meanwhile, on the blue side of Manchester, manager Enzo Maresca has delivered mixed fitness updates ahead of their clash with Aston Villa at 18:30 on 24 October 2026. The biggest boost is that star striker Erling Haaland has fully recovered from injury and is ready to start. The Norwegian's return will provide a massive lift to Manchester City's frontline.

However, that joy is tempered by a major setback, with winger Antoine Semenyo suffering a serious injury that will sideline him for at least two months (eight weeks). Losing such a dynamic threat is bound to impact the champions' attacking potency during a gruelling run of fixtures.

Editorial View

These contrasting selection fortunes present tactical headaches for both sides of the Manchester divide. While Manchester United must lean on the return of Matthijs de Ligt to steady a backline ravaged by injuries, Manchester City must quickly find a way to fill the void left by Antoine Semenyo just as Erling Haaland returns. Ultimately, how these giants manage their squad depth and integrate returning superstars will define their success during this relentless period. Will the returns of De Ligt and Haaland inspire their respective sides to all three points in the upcoming matchday?