With tensions rising as Manchester United head into an important quarter-final clash, the pressure is building ahead of their encounter with Olympique Lyonnais.
Ruben Amorim has had to balance squad rotation with pressing commitments, and as crucial European matches loom, the Red Devils’ injury woes are adding further complications.
While many had their eyes fixed on the 196th derby this past weekend, it’s the aftermath of that encounter that has become the main talking point for United fans.
The recent Manchester derby ended in a frustrating stalemate that offered little in terms of excitement or clear-cut opportunities for either side.
Both teams, seemingly more concerned with securing Premier League points and looking towards other competitions, were hardly in the mood for a thrilling contest.
It was a performance that left fans wanting more, especially after the exhilarating 90th-minute win in December’s reverse fixture.
For Ruben Amorim, though, a point from both his meetings with Pep Guardiola this season, including his time at Sporting Lisbon, offers a small consolation.
However, United’s immediate focus has shifted away from the league to the Europa League.
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With Thursday’s match against Olympique Lyonnais fast approaching, Amorim faces the challenge of navigating the fixture with a squad that is stretched thin.
Injuries to key players have disrupted his plans, and he’s been forced to carefully manage player fitness to avoid further setbacks.
In a concerning moment during the derby, Harry Maguire was replaced in the 58th minute, leading to worries about a potential new injury.
However, Amorim moved quickly to calm fears, explaining that the substitution was pre-planned to avoid any risk to Maguire, who had just returned from injury.
He emphasized that the priority was Thursday’s European clash, and the team needed to ensure that every player was fully fit for that crucial game.
“Just managing him.
“After 60 minutes, 55 minutes is a risk and we cannot risk any player at this moment,” said Amorim.
He also provided an update on other injured players, confirming that Matthijs de Ligt was nursing an injury, and there were still doubts over his recovery timeline.
“Matta (Matthijs de Ligt), he has an injury.
“Let’s see how long it is going to take.
“We’ll see.
“Mason Mount is ready to do whatever we want,” the Portuguese coach continued.
“Of course, we have to look at the minutes.
“Kobbie Mainoo is training with us.
“We want to be careful, again, with our players, but maybe he’s going to be in our squad.”
Despite the challenges, Amorim remained hopeful that the squad would be ready for the demanding weeks ahead.
With injuries mounting and key players unavailable, United’s squad depth will be tested as they push for success in Europe.
The upcoming fixtures are make-or-break, and Amorim’s tactical decisions will be crucial in determining whether the Reds can mount a serious challenge for silverware this season.
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Source: Centred Devils
