Eight Players Could Miss Man Utd vs Crystal Palace as Michael Carrick Admits Disappointment

Manchester United’s unusual season without European football is beginning to show clear advantages, and Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace at Old Trafford could be another example of how rest and recovery are paying off for Michael Carrick’s side.

While United have enjoyed almost a full week on the training ground preparing for the visit of the Eagles, Palace arrive in Manchester with tired legs after Thursday night’s UEFA Conference League action. That contrast in schedules has become a recurring theme this season, and Carrick has quietly used it to his benefit as United push hard for a top-four finish.

Fresh United look to build momentum

Since taking over as interim boss, Michael Carrick has overseen a strong run of results, with United looking sharper, more organised and increasingly confident. The recent 1-0 win away at Everton was another sign of progress, even if it came at a physical cost.

That victory lifted United further up the table and reinforced their reputation as one of the league’s most difficult teams to break down in recent weeks. Importantly, Carrick has been able to rotate carefully and manage minutes, something that is far harder for clubs juggling domestic and European commitments.

The extra recovery time has also allowed United’s medical staff to focus on bringing key players back to fitness rather than rushing them through the door.

Lisandro Martinez edging closer

One of the main concerns from the Everton win was the absence of Lisandro Martinez, who missed the trip to Goodison Park with a knock. The Argentine’s aggressive style and leadership have been central to United’s recent defensive solidity, so his availability is closely watched.

Speaking to MUTV, Carrick offered a positive update. Martinez, known affectionately as “Licha” among fans, is not expected to be sidelined for long.

“He’s a lot closer than Patrick is,” Carrick explained. “It will be a matter of days, hopefully. We’ll assess him over the next day or two and see where he is.”

That assessment period has been made easier by United’s clear calendar, and there is quiet optimism that Martinez could return sooner rather than later.

Dorgu and De Ligt still sidelined

Full-back Patrick Dorgu remains out after picking up an injury against Arsenal earlier this month. Carrick confirmed that the young defender is progressing well but still faces “a number of weeks” on the sidelines.

Another long-term concern is Matthijs de Ligt, who continues to recover from a back issue that has proven frustratingly slow.

“It’s something we’ve been working through,” Carrick said. “He’s going in the right direction, but he’s just a little bit further behind. It’s disappointing, but it’s part of football.”

Despite the absences, United’s defensive structure has held firm, helped by consistent selection and clear roles, something Carrick has prioritised since stepping into the dugout.

Mason Mount getting closer

There is also cautious optimism around Mason Mount, who has missed the last four matches through injury. While Sunday’s clash with Palace may come too soon, Carrick confirmed the midfielder is edging closer to a return.

Mount’s energy and pressing ability could be a valuable addition during the final stretch of the season, especially as United look to maintain intensity while others around them juggle heavy schedules.

Palace arrive with their own problems

Crystal Palace’s situation is far less straightforward. Manager Oliver Glasner has been forced to balance European commitments with domestic survival, and injuries are beginning to pile up.

Striker Jean-Philippe Mateta remains sidelined with a knee injury, with Glasner admitting he hopes to have him back “in the next two or three weeks.” Midfielder Jefferson Lerma is also unavailable after suffering a hamstring problem against Burnley, while Cheick Doucoure and Eddie Nketiah are both set to miss out.

Palace were in action on Thursday night, defeating Zrinjski Mostar in the Conference League play-off, and that match brought mixed emotions. Defender Maxence Lacroix marked his return from an adductor injury with a goal, but Glasner admitted there are doubts over whether he can start again just days later.

“I don’t know if he can play twice in three days,” Glasner said. “Right now it looks OK, but we’ll see how the reaction is.”

Advantage United?

All signs point towards United holding a physical edge going into Sunday afternoon. With more rest, fewer matches in their legs, and a growing sense of belief under Carrick, Old Trafford feels like a difficult place for a tired Palace side to visit.

While injuries remain a concern for both teams, United’s ability to manage their squad carefully could prove decisive as the season enters its most demanding phase. For Carrick, this is another opportunity to underline how valuable a clear schedule can be — and why United are suddenly looking like a side built for consistency rather than chaos.

Kick-off may be at 2pm, but the groundwork for this clash has been laid all week.