Fernandes, Sesko and Rashford among eight injury concerns for Manchester United

Manchester United are monitoring eight potential injury concerns during the international break, with captain Bruno Fernandes the latest addition to a lengthening list of absentees.

Fernandes played nearly the full 90 minutes of Portugal’s Nations League win over Wales but has been ruled out of Sunday’s fixture against Norway. Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus confirmed the decision, revealing the 32-year-old had been managing a problem for some time. “He told me he’s been playing with that pain for the last three games, which is hindering him,” Jesus said. “I prefer not to risk it in this game so he’s fully fit for the Denmark match.” Fernandes is expected to be available for United’s Premier League home fixture against Tottenham on Saturday, 10 October, provided his condition does not worsen.

Benjamin Sesko is also a doubt for that same game after suffering a setback in his recovery from a shin problem, which prevented him from joining Slovenia’s international squad. The striker started United’s Carabao Cup defeat against Brighton but missed the trip to Fulham three days later. Interim coach Michael Carrick said the club were assessing the issue and hoped it was not serious.

Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo were both named in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad but withdrew before the camp began. Rashford appeared to pick up a knock late in United’s match against Fulham last Sunday, raising concerns about his availability for the Tottenham fixture.

Amad remains the most significant long-term concern. The Ivory Coast winger has yet to make a single appearance this season due to an ankle problem sustained at the very start of the campaign. He is, however, expected to return to training during the extended domestic break, offering some encouragement to United’s medical staff.

With the Tottenham fixture now serving as the focal point for return dates across the squad, United’s coaching staff will be hoping the international pause provides enough time for several players to recover. The cluster of injury issues across different positions adds pressure to a squad already navigating a difficult start to the season.