Manchester United midfielder starts game for first time since December 2025

Manchester United’s injury situation is appearing to become clearer and better with players returning from their respective injuries ahead of a crucial last five games of the season.

Leny Yoro returned from injury against Brentford as he came off the bench in the second half. Patrick Dorgu also returned to the bench for the match although did not make an appearance.

Matthijs de Ligt appears to be still out, however, with a back injury. The Netherlands international, who has not played since November, may miss the World Cup squad if he does not return from his injury soon.

Marc Skinner’s women’s side, too, have players returning from injuries as the end of the season quickly approaches.

Ella Toone is one of those having come off the bench in the side’s last game against Tottenham Hotspur as the team drew.

Now, in Saturday’s game against Brighton and Hove Albion, she started the game, her first start since her injury last December.

Manchester United would draw the game 1-1, with a last minute equaliser from Lea Schuller rescuing a point for Skinner’s side.

Even with this, however, the picture looks bleak with Arsenal having three games in hand and needing just one win to ensure that Manchester United will not play Champions League football next season.

Toone’s return does shine some positivity on the squad, though, given her influence during the first half of the season. In the 22 matches she played before she was injured last year, she scored three times whilst providing eight assists.

If Ella Toone can provide quality in Manchester United’s final game of the season against Chelsea, the side may be able to end the season on a high note, even if this is without qualification for the Champions League.