Devastating news for Skinner and United as key star set to be sidelined for weeks with an injury – report

Manchester United goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce is likely to be out of action for weeks with a fractured eye socket. Tullis-Joyce injured Tullis-Joyce missed United’s historic Champions League victory over Paris Saint-Germain last week due to a facial injury. In her absence, Safia Middleton-Patel started between the sticks and produced a sensational performance. Middleton-Patel was in goal again last weekend as United slipped to a 3-0 WSL defeat at the hands of cross-town rivals Manchester City. During the contest with PSG at Old Trafford, Tullis-Joyce was spotted wearing sunglasses alongside teammates. The Athletic have now confirmed that the USWNT star suffered a fractured eye socket. According to the newspaper, “A fractured eye socket could typically take some weeks from which to fully recover.” Marc Skinner told reporters on Saturday after the loss to City, “She should be fine, it’s just trying to make sure she doesn’t get another knock in that area.” Skinner suggested that Tullis-Joyce could be back for Thursday’s meeting with Wolfsburg at AOK Stadion, but this appears unlikely if The Athletic’s assessment is anything to go by. The 29-year-old has made 14 appearances for United this season across the WSL and Champions League, keeping eight clean sheets in that period. She has also conceded just six goals. Middleton-Patel ready to step up While her and her United teammates were humbled by City on Saturday, Middleton-Patel has already proven that she is a solid deputy to Tullis-Joyce. In only her second start for the club, she delivered a superb display against PSG and never looked fazed. Skinner has spoken glowingly of Middleton-Patel and with Tullis-Joyce expected to be sidelined for weeks, she could play a big role in the team. Feature image Matt McNulty via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!