Two Man United stars set to return for Liverpool clash

Manchester United’s visit to Anfield after the international break carries weight beyond the usual rivalry. It represents a chance for Ruben Amorim’s side to string together back-to-back Premier League victories for the first time under his tenure. The 2-0 win over Sunderland before the break, courtesy of goals from Mason Mount and Benjamin Sesko, provided a timely lift for a squad striving to find rhythm and identity.

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Liverpool’s recent struggles across competitions have added intrigue. The reigning champions have lost three consecutive matches, offering Manchester United a rare opportunity to test themselves against a faltering opponent. Yet for all the optimism, Amorim’s primary focus remains the health and readiness of his squad. Several key figures are edging closer to a return, potentially giving United renewed defensive stability and attacking balance ahead of their biggest test so far this season.

Noussair Mazraoui’s season has been fragmented by minor injuries, interrupting his adaptation to English football. The versatile Moroccan full-back missed the opening fixture against Arsenal, returned to play three successive matches, but then suffered another setback during the 2-1 win over Chelsea. That knock forced him to sit out both the Brentford defeat and the subsequent victory over Sunderland.

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He was also withdrawn from Morocco’s international squad for matches against Bahrain and Congo. Amorim later confirmed that Mazraoui was carrying an unspecified issue, ruling him out until after the international break. Encouragingly for United, indications suggest he will be fit in time to face Liverpool. The manager is expected to clarify his availability during the pre-match press conference.

Potential return date: October 19, 2025 vs Liverpool (A)

Few returns will feel as significant as that of Lisandro Martinez. The Argentine defender’s absence since February has been deeply felt, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered against Crystal Palace required surgery and months of rehabilitation. Now, after a positive scan and a steady build-up in individual training, Martinez is on the verge of resuming full sessions at Carrington.

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Reports suggest the 27-year-old could feature against Brighton or Nottingham Forest later in October, with Amorim providing insight into what his return means for the squad. “It’s really important,” said the United boss. “We miss a lot Licha [Martinez], especially in this moment, we miss his aggression in everything he does, we miss him. But he’s always there in every meeting. In training, he sometimes finishes his and stays to watch the training. We need Licha in this team.”

His leadership, tenacity and vocal presence have been absent in a side that often lacks bite in defensive duels. The sight of Martinez back in the matchday squad will likely bring a collective lift across the club.

Potential return date: October 25, 2025 vs Brighton (H)

Young defender Ayden Heaven, one of United’s most promising academy graduates, suffered a setback on international duty with England’s Under-20s. The 19-year-old picked up a knock early in the defeat to Switzerland at St George’s Park, receiving treatment before being replaced at half-time.

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The fact that he managed to complete the first half offers hope that the issue is not serious. England U20 head coach Ben Futcher said after the match that Heaven had “picked something up” but added he didn’t think it was “too serious”. However, he also cautioned that “we will have to see how it settles down”, leaving a degree of uncertainty ahead of the Liverpool fixture.

All eyes will now turn to Amorim’s pre-match briefing, where an update on Heaven’s condition is expected. While his inclusion would add youthful depth to United’s defensive options, the club’s medical staff will be reluctant to take risks.

Potential return date: October 19, 2025 vs Liverpool (A)

For Amorim, this period represents a chance to cement trust in his project. A win at Anfield would not only strengthen United’s league position but underline a growing sense of structure and belief. The return of players like Martinez and Mazraoui, both pivotal in terms of leadership and tactical flexibility, could provide the momentum needed to transform cautious optimism into confidence.

Amorim’s message has been consistent: unity, intensity and patience. With near-full fitness across his squad and renewed spirit in training, Manchester United approach Anfield with cautious optimism and a sense of unfinished business.