Michael Carrick has expressed confidence that Noussair Mazraoui will be fit enough to be included in the Manchester United squad for Friday's Premier League match against Bournemouth, despite missing training on Wednesday through illness. The interim head coach confirmed that the team will train again on Thursday before travelling to the south coast, and he expects Mazraoui to be part of the travelling party.
However, there was less positive news on other injury fronts. Patrick Dorgu remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Matthijs de Ligt (back) and Lisandro Martinez (calf) are also ruled out of the clash with Andoni Iraola's side. Carrick provided the update during his pre-match press conference, where he also discussed the form of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes.
Carrick praised Mainoo's recent performances, noting that the 20-year-old has started all nine Premier League games since the interim coach took charge, after not starting any under Ruben Amorim earlier in the season. His partnership with Casemiro has been a key factor in United's improved form, with the team currently sitting third in the table, six points clear of sixth place.
Meanwhile, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's recent comments on the club's recruitment have drawn attention. In an interview with the BBC, Ratcliffe criticised past transfer business, referencing players such as Antony, Casemiro, Onana, Hojlund, and Sancho, and the instalments still owed for them. Carrick has handled questions on the matter diplomatically.
United's strong run under Carrick has put them in contention for Champions League qualification, and there is speculation about whether he will be appointed permanently. With managerial uncertainty at Manchester City and Liverpool, some have suggested United could mount a title challenge next season.
