Michael Carrick confirmed that Mason Mount missed Manchester United’s dramatic 3-2 win over Fulham after picking up a minor knock in training, while defender Patrick Dorgu is facing a longer spell on the sidelines following a serious setback.
United sealed victory deep into stoppage time at Old Trafford to maintain Carrick’s perfect start as interim head coach, but the evening came with contrasting injury news that shaped both the matchday squad and the wider picture around the club.
Mount was a notable absentee when the teamsheet was released, raising questions among supporters keen to see the midfielder build rhythm under Carrick. The England international had been involved in training all week but was left out as a precaution after suffering a slight issue at Carrington.
Carrick moved quickly to play down any concern, explaining that Mount’s omission was purely preventative and that a return is expected in the immediate future. With United already managing a growing list of injuries, the positive update came as a timely boost.
The situation is far less encouraging for Dorgu. The young defender, who had impressed in Carrick’s opening fixtures, was injured during the victory over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. Initial assessments suggested cramp, but further checks have confirmed a more serious problem.
Carrick admitted the timing is frustrating, with Dorgu just beginning to establish himself at first-team level. The defender is now set to miss several weeks, a setback that removes a player who had brought energy and balance to United’s back line.
The injury forced a reshuffle against Fulham and opened the door for Matheus Cunha to start. The Brazilian’s inclusion proved decisive as he scored United’s second goal shortly after the break, rewarding Carrick’s faith after two impactful substitute appearances.
Old Trafford was tense from the opening stages, with Fulham arriving confident and organised. United dominated possession early on, using Cunha’s ball carrying and movement between the lines to push the visitors back, while Bruno Fernandes dictated the tempo in midfield.
Fulham remained dangerous on the counter and tested United’s defensive concentration, but the home side gradually found openings. Cunha’s goal early in the second half shifted the momentum before the match descended into a frantic final stretch.
Late drama followed when Fulham struck back to level the score at 2-2, threatening to derail United’s momentum. Carrick remained composed on the touchline as his side pushed forward in search of a winner.
That decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time, sending Old Trafford into celebration and securing Carrick’s third straight Premier League win. The result places him alongside Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the only managers to win their first three league games in charge of the club.
For United, the victory keeps belief high during a transitional period, with Mount expected back soon and Cunha stepping up when called upon. The challenge now is to maintain momentum while navigating injuries, with Carrick’s calm influence already leaving a clear mark on the squad.
