Ahead of Manchester United's Boxing Day home game against Newcastle, boss Ruben Amorim gave updates on Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo's fitness. United wants to recover from their 2-1 loss to Aston Villa and improve their chances of finishing in the top four. They've only gotten one point from their last two games.

Fernandes Left the Villa Game Early

Last weekend, Aston Villa beat United with two great goals from Morgan Rogers. Now, United is three points behind Chelsea, who are in fourth place. This week, Amorim's team has a chance to tie with Chelsea before Chelsea plays Aston Villa on Saturday night.

The loss at Villa Park was even worse because captain Fernandes had to be subbed out at halftime with a possible hamstring issue. He'll probably be out until the New Year. This is tough for Amorim, since Fernandes has been key in United's midfield this season.

Before Friday's game, Amorim updated everyone on Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, who didn't play against Villa because of an injury.

Amorim on Four Players' Fitness

At the pre-Newcastle press conference, Amorim said about Fernandes and Mainoo, "They won’t play this game; they're still getting better." I think Kobbie will be back sooner than Bruno. I have an idea when, but we'll see. We have other players, and we might need to try some different strategies.”

Amorim also said that centre-backs Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt would miss the Newcastle game due to hamstring and back problems. We're still working with them. "They can't play this one, but we'll see about the next game," he said.

On a brighter note, Amorim praised academy players Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey, who both made their debuts as subs against Villa. Jack Fletcher was great, and that’s why we need to give chances to guys like him, Amorim said.

About Fletcher and Lacey's debuts, Amorim added, "They're normal, good kids." They’ve been great this week. They haven't changed just because they played for Manchester United.

They’re focused, getting ready for the game, and they think they can play. That’s good. They’re the same as they’ve been for the past few weeks.

'No Replacing Bruno'

Fernandes' absence is a blow, and he's hoping to be back for the Manchester derby next month. Amorim said it's 'impossible' to replace him: It is impossible to replace Bruno. This morning, I told the team that this is a time for others to step up.

Not just with creating plays, but also with set pieces. He organises the team, and this is a chance for everyone to understand we can't rely on one player for everything.

We sometimes count on Bruno for organising and creating. We’ve lost Bruno in set pieces, so this is a big deal, but it’s a chance for players to show the leadership we need.”

About what the team loses without Fernandes, Amorim added, "Everything." He knows every position. He pays attention to everything. During set pieces or subs, he tells everyone where to be.

But this is great for guys like Licha, Luke Shaw, and others. We need more leaders to step up because this can happen to Bruno. It’s not common, but it can, so this is a big chance for the other guys.”

Several Absences for United

United will be missing several key players against Newcastle. Besides Fernandes, Mainoo, Maguire, and De Ligt, Mbeumo, Amad, and Noussair Mazraoui are playing for Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and Morocco, respectively, in the Africa Cup of Nations.

But Casemiro is back after missing the Villa game due to suspension.

Word is, Manchester United might head to Saudi Arabia for a friendly to make some extra cash. Their Premier League game against Everton has been moved to February 23, which frees up some time in their schedule. Since they're not in any European competitions this year, United is looking at playing a game during that gap.

Man Utd Thinking About Saudi Trip for Friendly

Because United didn't make it into European football, they've been hoping to set up a friendly match in Saudi Arabia to make some money. Now that the Everton game is set for February 23, this is looking more possible. They play West Ham on February 10, which leaves them with almost two weeks free, according to The Times.

This free time means they could go to Saudi Arabia, and they'd probably bring their main players. But, they'll wait until after their FA Cup game against Brighton before making a final call. If they beat Brighton, they have another game on Saturday, February 14, 2026, which could mess up their plans.

Manager Wants the Friendly

United's coach, Ruben Amorim, seems up for a mid-season friendly. He told reporters earlier that they need to do it to make up for missing out on Europe. He mentioned needing to take care of their fans and budget. He said they'll find the time to make it happen for their fans around the world.

Who Could They Play?

The Times says AC Milan is one possibility since they also have a gap in their schedule and aren't in European football.

There's also buzz about United playing against Cristiano Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. A game against him could give United's finances a boost.

Ronaldo recently said he's sad to see his old club struggling. He told Piers Morgan he still cares about United but thinks they need smart people to build a future. He mentioned the team used to have young players who became stars, but now they don't have that structure. He hopes things change because the club has amazing potential.

What's Next for Man Utd?

For now, United is focusing on its Premier League performance. They want to bounce back after losing to Aston Villa. Next, they play Newcastle United on Boxing Day, and then Wolves come to Old Trafford on December 30. They'll have to play without their captain, Bruno Fernandes, for both games because he's injured.