Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes suffered a hamstring/soft tissue issue against Aston Villa and will miss multiple games, with an exact return date yet to be determined.

Fernandes’ absence will affect United’s Boxing Day home clash with Newcastle, prompting coach Ruben Amorim to stress patience and avoid panic buying in January.

There is transfer interest in Antoine Semenyo and Ruben Neves for January, but Amorim remains committed to a pre-existing plan rather than rushing signings.

The broader squad picture includes AFCON-related absences in midfield, highlighting the need to find internal solutions.

With poor recent form and a slide to seventh, United are focusing on a long-term plan and patience instead of rapid recruitment.

Amorim acknowledged ongoing injury problems and the necessity to cope with current squad limitations as they move forward.

The manager underscored short-term targets, aiming to win the next game against Newcastle while proceeding without hastily buying players.

Two main challenges identified are replacing Fernandes and determining the duration of his absence, all within a long-term plan to avoid panic buys.

Diogo Dalot stressed Fernandes’ loss’s impact and urged the squad to seize opportunities and stay competitive during his spell out.

Casemiro returns from a one-match ban and Manuel Ugarte is expected to be fit, but other injuries persist as doubts linger over De Ligt, Maguire, Mainoo, and Mazraoui.

United’s injury list is growing, with Mainoo also out for a few weeks, pushing the team to rely on internal options rather than immediate reinforcements.

The club faces a packed schedule, including four games in two weeks and an FA Cup tie with Brighton, all amid Fernandes’ absence.