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Diego Leon: Forgotten Man United star emerges as surprise solution as Michael Carrick seeks defensive cover

Diego Leon and other Manchester United fringe players featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly vs FC Lausanne-Sport to build match fitness.

By Ayantan Chowdhury · The Peoples Person

Published: Saturday, 3 October 2026 at 10:30 PM

Key Things to Know

Diego Leon played his first minutes under Michael Carrick in a behind-closed-doors friendly against FC Lausanne-Sport.
Injuries to Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu could open first-team opportunities for the 19-year-old Paraguayan defender.
Carlos Baleba made his maiden Manchester United appearance after recovering from an ankle injury.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Manchester United defender Diego Leon earned his first minutes under manager Michael Carrick in a behind-closed-doors friendly against FC Lausanne-Sport on Saturday. Carrick fielded a makeshift squad due to injuries and international absences. The 19-year-old Paraguayan could emerge as defensive cover amid injuries to full-backs Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu.

The friendly also marked the first United appearance for Carlos Baleba following an ankle injury, alongside outings for Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Matheus Cunha, and Carrick's 16-year-old son, Jacey Carrick. However, winger Amad was absent from the squad as he continues his recovery.

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