Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is grappling with a number of selection issues as his side prepares to take on Brentford in the Premier League this weekend. With injuries piling up and crucial players sidelined, Ten Hag is facing a significant challenge in naming a strong starting XI.
Injury Concerns:
Several United players returned from international duty early due to fitness issues, adding to the club’s growing injury list.
– Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo, and Amad Diallo all withdrew from international squads last week, though the severity of their injuries remains undisclosed. United fans are hopeful that these were precautionary withdrawals ahead of a busy fixture schedule.
– Harry Maguire is the latest defensive casualty, sidelined with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Noussair Mazraoui is not expected to return until next month after undergoing a minor heart procedure.
– The defensive woes don’t end there. Both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remain unavailable, forcing Ten Hag to make difficult decisions at left-back. With Diogo Dalot likely to shift back to his usual right-back position, there’s a void at left-back that needs to be filled.
– Veteran defender Jonny Evans could be called upon to play at left-back, though Ten Hag may also consider pushing Lisandro Martinez into that role. Another option is 17-year-old Harry Amass, who impressed during pre-season but may not yet be physically ready for the demands of senior football.
– In midfield, Manuel Ugarte is a fresh concern after being forced off during Uruguay’s World Cup qualifier against Ecuador with a thigh injury. Although Ugarte has been used sparingly since joining from Paris Saint-Germain, his absence will further limit Ten Hag’s midfield options.
Returning Players:
There is some good news for United, as Mason Mount has returned to training following his latest injury setback. His availability could provide a much-needed boost to the squad, particularly in midfield, where injuries have mounted.
Predicted Manchester United Lineup (4-2-3-1):
– GK: Onana
– RB: Dalot
– CB: De Ligt
– CB: Evans
– LB: Martinez
– CM: Casemiro
– CM: Mainoo
– RW: Amad
– CAM: Fernandes
– LW: Rashford
– ST: Højlund
Defensive Crisis:
United’s biggest challenge lies in their defense. With five senior defenders unavailable, including summer signing Leny Yoro, Ten Hag’s options are severely limited. The return of Diogo Dalot to his preferred right-back position will add some stability, but the absence of key players like Shaw, Malacia, and Maguire leaves a huge gap in the defensive line.
Brentford Threat:
United will need to be particularly wary of Bryan Mbeumo, Brentford’s dynamic forward, who has been in excellent form this season. With the Red Devils struggling to find consistency, this match could prove tricky against a Brentford side that can cause problems on the break.
As United look to get their season back on track, Ten Hag will need to find solutions quickly, especially with crucial Premier League and European fixtures coming up in the next few weeks.