Manchester United Lose Four Players as Injury Crisis Ramps Up Again | OneFootball

Manchester United Injury Crisis: Lindelof, Maguire, and More

As Manchester United’s pre-season intensifies, the club faces an escalating injury crisis that threatens to derail their preparations for the upcoming Premier League campaign. Erik ten Hag’s squad has been hit hard, with four more players sidelined due to injuries, compounding the manager’s challenges ahead of the new season.

Key Defenders Out: Lindelof and Maguire

The defensive line has been particularly affected, with Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire both unavailable. Lindelof, who was substituted at half-time during the recent pre-season clash against Liverpool, was taken off as a precaution. Maguire, meanwhile, did not feature in the match due to an injury concern. Ten Hag opted to rest the former captain to avoid exacerbating the situation, stating, “Harry Maguire, as a precaution, we leave him out.”

Photo: IMAGO

The absence of these key defenders adds to the growing list of unavailable players. Youngster Will Fish also left the field with a leg injury after a challenge from Liverpool’s Harvey Blair, while veteran Jonny Evans was withdrawn at half-time due to illness.

Pre-Season Setbacks: More Than Just Injuries

The pre-season has not been kind to United, with injuries piling up at an alarming rate. Newly signed Leny Yoro, who joined for €70 million, is expected to be out for three months following a foot injury sustained in a friendly against Arsenal. Additionally, striker Rasmus Hojlund suffered a hamstring injury in the same match, sidelining him for six weeks. These setbacks are far from ideal as the team prepares for the Premier League’s opening day in just 12 days.

Ten Hag’s comments reflect the mounting frustration: “Pre-season is always tough. We had, of course, some injuries, but that is part of club football. We have to develop our team and make some good progression.” With a squad already dealing with the rigours of pre-season training, the mounting injuries present a significant challenge.

Pressure Mounts on Ten Hag

The pressure on Erik ten Hag is immense. After a disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season and an early exit from European competitions, the Dutchman narrowly avoided the sack, salvaging his position with a dramatic FA Cup final win over Manchester City. This season, the expectations are higher, and the margin for error is slim.

With key players like Lindelof and Maguire injured, alongside newcomers Yoro and Hojlund, Ten Hag’s tactical acumen will be tested. The manager must navigate these challenges while integrating new signings and ensuring the squad’s fitness levels are adequate for the season’s demands.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for the Premier League

As the Premier League opener looms, Manchester United must find solutions quickly. The defensive frailties exposed in pre-season could be a harbinger of the challenges ahead if the injury crisis isn’t managed effectively. Fans and pundits alike will watch closely to see how Ten Hag adapts his tactics and utilises the squad depth.

With the likes of Lindelof and Maguire critical to United’s defensive stability, their swift return to fitness is paramount. The club’s medical team will have their work cut out as they aim to get the squad back to full strength. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining how prepared Manchester United will be for the battles ahead.