Softfootball understands that Manchester United have been handed a much-needed lift ahead of their Premier League match against Burnley today, with both Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes set to return to the matchday squad after injury layoffs, as reported by Fabrizio Romano via his official X account.
He posted:
Good news for Manchester United as understand Harry Maguire returns with the squad for Burnley game. Maguire has been spotted at team’s hotel today and he’s set to be available after long injury. Bruno Fernandes, also back.
At a time when confidence around the club feels fragile, the timing could hardly be better. Maguire, sidelined since early November with a stubborn hamstring problem, was spotted arriving at United’s team hotel before the Turf Moor fixture, effectively confirming his availability.
It marks the defender’s first real involvement after one of the longest injury absences of his United career. His last appearance came in Manchester United’s 2-2 draw against Tottenham in early November, and since then the back line has looked stretched more often than not.
With Matthijs de Ligt still ruled out due to a back issue, Maguire’s return offers some much-needed cover, even if his minutes are likely to be managed. Leny Yoro and Lisandro Martínez have carried much of the load in his absence, so there’s no rush to throw Maguire straight back in for a full 90 minutes.
Bruno Fernandes is also back in contention after recovering from a hamstring injury picked up in late December. The club captain missed the recent draw with Leeds United, and his absence was clearly felt.
Fernandes has now returned to training and is expected to be involved, which is a massive boost in terms of leadership, energy, and creativity, even if he’s not fully unleashed yet. Fletcher is expected to take a cautious approach, especially with an FA Cup tie against Brighton looming this weekend.
However, United’s problems aren’t fully over. Matheus Cunha remains sidelined, while Bryan Mbeumo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Amad Diallo are away on Africa Cup of Nations duty. It leaves United light in attack and short on options.
Still, with Maguire and Fernandes back in the mix, there’s at least a sense that the clouds might be shifting. Not perfect yet, but better.
