Carrick warns of two key absences before the clash with Atlético
Michael Carrick, Manchester United manager, announced from the Metropolitano auditorium that midfielder Kobee Mainoo and full‑back Luke Shaw will not travel for Tuesday's match against Atlético de Madrid, which is the second round of the Champions League group stage.
Injuries to Mainoo and Shaw
Mainoo and Shaw also did not take part in the last training session in England before the trip to the Spanish capital. Both suffered some issues during Saturday's match and, as Carrick explained, they are still not ready to play on Tuesday. “They haven’t traveled. Both suffered some issues during Saturday’s match. We are assessing the situation to see exactly what their condition is, but at this moment they are not ready to play on Tuesday,” he said at the press conference.
In the same conference, Carrick recalled a personal conversation with Atlético coach Javier G. Gómara, saying: “With Cholo I had a father‑to‑son talk”. The reference underscores the closeness between the two coaching staffs before the clash.
Other absences and call‑ups
In addition to Mainoo and Shaw, Manchester United will also be without Patrick Dorgu, Noussair Mazraoui, Benjamin Sesko and Manuel Ugarte for the same fixture. Carrick specified that Sesko will undergo additional tests to determine his physical condition.
“We need to make sure we do everything correctly to get him back as soon as possible, but right now I can’t give a more concrete timeframe,” the English manager said regarding Sesko. The absence of these players reduces the options for the English side.
Matthijs de Ligt does appear on the list, having returned from a long injury. Carrick praised his comeback, noting: “It’s good to have him back. He’s been out for a long time, we have had to be patient with him and manage his recovery well. It’s fantastic to have him with us again.”
The manager also called up Dan Armer, a youth product who plays in central defence. “It’s good for players like Dan to be part of the squad. For the younger ones it’s important to experience this kind of situation, feel the atmosphere of these nights and share the preparation with the rest of the team,” Carrick concluded.
For his part, Atlético de Madrid defender Hancko expressed his excitement: “Playing the Champions final in our stadium would be incredible”. The statement, quoted by Chema G. Fuente, reflects the English rival’s ambition.