Team News
Manchester United will be without Patrick Dorgu after the Dane’s dramatic afternoon against Arsenal ended in misfortune. Having scored a stunning long-range effort that briefly stole the headlines, Dorgu was later forced off with a significant hamstring injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for up to 10 weeks.
His absence reshapes Michael Carrick’s attacking plans. Either Matheus Cunha or Benjamin Sesko is poised to benefit, with Cunha arguably the frontrunner following his decisive contribution in North London. He could operate from a wide position or lead the line, allowing Bryan Mbeumo to shift across the front three.
Dorgu joins Matthijs de Ligt, who remains out with a back issue, and Joshua Zirkzee among United’s fitness concerns. Zirkzee has returned to training and may yet be included in the matchday squad, offering Carrick an additional option in attack.
Fulham could receive a defensive boost with Kenny Tete nearing a return from a thigh problem, though Rodrigo Muniz and Sasa Lukic are set for extended spells on the sidelines with similar injuries. Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze have all rejoined the group following their Africa Cup of Nations commitments. Chukwueze would ordinarily be pushing for a starting berth, although he is currently mourning a personal loss. Marco Silva has not ruled out his involvement, while recent arrival Oscar Bobb may have to wait before making his debut.
Form Guide
United’s momentum under Carrick has been building. A composed 2-0 victory over Manchester City was followed by a thrilling five-goal triumph at the Emirates, where Bryan Mbeumo, Dorgu and Cunha all found the net in a performance that handed Arsenal their first home defeat of the campaign in any competition.
That result extended United’s unbeaten Premier League run to six matches, the longest active streak in the division. They currently sit above both Chelsea and Liverpool, buoyed by a consistent attacking output that has seen them score in 11 consecutive league fixtures. Defensive improvements have also been evident at Old Trafford, where they have conceded just once in their last three top-flight outings.
Fulham arrive in confident mood themselves. After a turbulent spell earlier in the season that brought as many defeats as victories, the Cottagers have stabilised, losing only one of their last eight matches across all competitions. Their most recent outing saw Harry Wilson once again prove decisive, scoring a late free kick to secure a dramatic comeback win over Brighton.
Seventh in the table and within touching distance of the top four, Fulham’s improved away form has underpinned their rise. Ten points from their last five Premier League matches on the road contrast sharply with their earlier struggles and suggest they will travel to Old Trafford with belief.
Predicted Outcome
Dorgu’s injury is an undeniable setback, yet United’s attacking depth and renewed confidence under Carrick should cushion the blow. With multiple forwards in form and a system that emphasises balance and verticality, the hosts appear well equipped to sustain their momentum.
Fulham’s organisation and recent resilience point to a competitive contest, but their inability to keep clean sheets in recent weeks may prove costly. United are favoured to edge the encounter and secure a third consecutive league victory.
