Manchester United injury update on Matheus Cunha, Luke Shaw and Matthijs de Ligt before Man United vs Liverpool
Manchester United host Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday, 3 May 2026, in one of the standout fixtures of the Premier League weekend.
Both sides are pushing to secure their positions in the Champions League places, with little separating them in third and fourth respectively. While the broader objectives may already be within reach, there is still plenty riding on this encounter in terms of pride and finishing position.
United come into the game looking to build momentum after their 2-1 win over Brentford on Monday night, but there remain a few concerns around squad fitness heading into the clash.
Cunha fitness gives Carrick cautious optimism
Michael Carrick was asked about the availability of Matheus Cunha – who missed the Brentford match through injury – as well as defenders Luke Shaw and Matthijs de Ligt. While the Dutchman is ruled out, Cunha and Shaw appear to be in contention.
“No, we’re in good shape really,” Carrick said. “Matheus has done a little bit of work so we’re hopeful, we’re not sure but we’re hopeful. So obviously Matta’s still a little bit further, he’s not involved in the game but other than that, yes, we’re in good shape.”
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Cunha’s availability remains uncertain, but the fact he has returned to some level of training suggests he could yet play a part against Liverpool if he comes through final checks.
Lisandro Martínez will miss out through suspension, leaving Carrick to once again consider his defensive options carefully.
There was more positive news off the pitch this week, with Kobbie Mainoo committing his long-term future to the club by signing a new deal until 2031. Carrick was full of praise for the young midfielder’s development.
“I think he’s evolved, he’s improving all the time,” Carrick said. “I think you can see that the more responsibility, the more confidence, the more belief he keeps adding to his game, and he’s certainly done that.
“But yeah, just giving him that platform and that opportunity to go and be the best version, and he’s done fantastic with it. There’s more to come, there’s loads more to come.
“I keep saying that for some time because he’s such a young man, you know, but he’s in a great spot at the moment.”