Fernandes was visibly struggling in the latter stages of the first half, clutching his right hamstring after pulling up without any contact. While he initially attempted to play through the discomfort until the interval, he was replaced by defender Lisandro Martínez for the start of the second half.
Amorim Confirms Layoff
Speaking after the match, Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim struck a concerned tone regarding the availability of his most durable player.
"It’s a soft tissue injury, so it’s going to be a while. We’ll see. He is a guy who is always fit, so he can recover well, but I think he’s going to miss some games," Amorim told reporters.
Medical assessments conducted early Monday suggest a recovery timeline of approximately four weeks. This would see the 31-year-old miss a minimum of seven matches, including the high-profile Boxing Day clash against Newcastle United and the New Year’s fixtures.
A Growing Crisis at Old Trafford
The timing of the injury could not be worse for the Red Devils. Amorim is already navigating a significantly depleted squad due to the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, with stars like Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui away on international duty.
Furthermore, midfield prospect Kobbie Mainoo missed the Villa Park trip after picking up a calf injury in training on Friday. With Fernandes now joining him on the treatment table, United’s midfield options are reduced to the recently returned Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte.
Strategic Impact
Fernandes has been the heartbeat of the United attack this season, recording five goals and seven assists in the Premier League alone. His absence is expected to force Amorim into tactical shifts, potentially utilizing Mason Mount in a more advanced role or continuing to use Martínez as an emergency midfield anchor.
Despite the mounting injury list, Amorim has insisted the club will not be forced into "panic buys" during the January transfer window, stating that the long-term recruitment plan remains unchanged.
Manchester United currently sit seventh in the Premier League table and will need to find internal solutions quickly as they enter the busiest period of the English football calendar.