Man United have missed £55m star more than any other injured player

Manchester United have endured a turbulent start to the 2025-26 season, with four of their key players sidelined at various points.

Lisandro Martinez has not kicked a ball this term after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) back in February.

He is expected to return by late October or early November.

Mason Mount, Matheus Cunha and Diogo Dalot were all absent for the Manchester Derby due to their respective injuries.

Cunha pulled up with a hamstring issue during the 3-2 victory over Burnley, forcing him off in the opening half.

Mount was substituted at half-time with an undisclosed knock that left supporters concerned.

Dalot is out injured after experiencing muscle discomfort while on international duty.

Manager Ruben Amorim confirmed earlier today that Cunha and Mount will be available for tomorrow’s clash with Chelsea.

It remains to be seen if either of the two will be able to start the game.

However, it is clear that Cunha is the player United have missed the most.

United have missed Cunha immensely

Dalot and Mount are crucial squad members but we believe the Red Devils have felt the absence of Cunha.

Amad Diallo deputised in the left number ten role against Manchester City but struggled to impose himself on the game.

Cunha’s relentless pressing and physical presence in duels would have unsettled City’s backline far more effectively.

The £55 million-rated star is a proven Premier League performer, while Diallo is still searching for consistency at the elite level.

United lacked the cutting edge in the final third last season, and Bryan Mbeumo cannot solve that problem alone.

The duo of Cunha and Mbeumo are the perfect solution, and the onus is on Amorim to let his attackers develop chemistry.

The second player the team has missed the most is Martinez.

Luke Shaw has been asked to fill in for the Argentine at centre-back but has not convinced as a true like-for-like replacement.

Martinez brings unmatched intensity, leadership, and crisp vertical passes that can transform United’s build-up play.

Cunha’s return is a huge boost, and Martinez stepping back into the heart of defence will finally allow Amorim to unleash his strongest XI.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .