Manchester United suffered another frustrating result on Sunday, as a stoppage-time equalizer from Ainsley Maitland-Niles denied Michael Carrick’s side a much-needed win at Everton. United had twice taken the lead — first through Bryan Mbeumo just 53 seconds into the second half, and again through substitute Benjamin Šeško after Tyrique George had leveled things for the Toffees — only to concede a stunning 35-yard strike from Maitland-Niles in the 96th minute that salvaged a 2-2 draw for David Moyes’ team.
Amid the late heartbreak, the bigger storyline for United fans centered on Marcus Rashford, who was withdrawn in the 70th minute after appearing to pick up an injury.
How Marcus Rashford Performed Before Being Substituted
Rashford was arguably United’s most dangerous player before his early exit. Making his second consecutive start under Michael Carrick, the 28-year-old caused persistent problems down United’s left flank, completing three dribbles and giving Everton’s stand-in right-back Merlin Röhl a difficult afternoon throughout his 70 minutes on the pitch. His combination play with left-back Luke Shaw was a particular bright spot, with the pair repeatedly overloading Everton’s right side.
Michael Carrick’s Full Update on Marcus Rashford’s Injury
Speaking after the match, Carrick confirmed that Rashford had felt some discomfort, which led to the precautionary substitution. According to Carrick, Rashford simply “felt a little bit of something,” prompting the change. The United manager was careful to characterize the issue as minor rather than serious, offering fans some early reassurance even as details remained limited in the immediate aftermath.
Carrick also took the opportunity to praise Rashford’s performance and his growing partnership with Shaw, noting that the pair have played together for a long time and have developed a s*trong understanding on the left side of the pitch — a connection he suggested still has more to offer as the season progresses.
Why Marcus Rashford’s Health Is Critical for Manchester United Right Now
The timing of any potential Rashford absence would be far from ideal. United are entering one of the busiest stretches of their season, with four matches packed into a 10-day window. The run begins with United’s UEFA Champions League opener at home against Azerbaijani club Sabah FK on Thursday, September 10, before United shifts back to Premier League action for the first Manchester Derby of the season on September 13. The stretch continues with the start of United’s Carabao Cup campaign against Brighton on September 16, before wrapping up with a league match against Fulham on September 20.
Rashford’s importance to this run is amplified by his track record in continental competition — across 11 career Champions League appearances, he’s contributed five goals and three assists, numbers that make his availability for the Sabah match particularly valuable for Carrick’s side.
Marcus Rashford’s Season So Far Since Returning From Barcelona
Rashford’s recent form adds further context to why this injury scare is being closely monitored. The Manchester-born forward returned to the club that developed him after spending last season on loan at Hansi Flick’s Barcelona. While he has yet to register a goal or an assist for United so far this season, his performances — including Sunday’s showing against Everton — suggest he’s rounding back into the kind of dangerous, direct threat United have missed in recent years.
What Happens if Marcus Rashford Misses Time for Manchester United
Should Rashford need to sit out any of United’s upcoming matches, Patrick Dorgu — who came on as his substitute against Everton — looks like the most likely option to deputize on the left wing. Dorgu filled that role with a reasonable degree of success last season, giving Carrick a credible alternative if rest or rehab is required. Given how sharp Rashford has looked to begin this campaign, though, the hope inside Old Trafford will be that this turns out to be nothing more than precautionary fatigue management rather than the start of an extended absence.
Manchester United’s Season Outlook Amid Injury Concerns
United currently sit 11th in the Premier League table after three matches, having recorded one win, one draw, and one loss for four total points — a mixed start that makes squad health even more important heading into a congested schedule. With a Champions League opener, a Manchester Derby, and cup competition all arriving in quick succession, how Carrick manages Rashford’s workload over the next 10 days could end up shaping the early tone of United’s entire season.
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