Following Manchester United’s commanding 3-0 victory over Southampton in the Premier League fixture, manager Erik ten Hag provided important updates on several players who sustained injuries during the match. With a hectic schedule ahead, including a Carabao Cup fixture against Barnsley and a tough league game against Crystal Palace, Ten Hag’s squad management will be crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the injury updates, potential lineup changes, and how it could impact United's performance in the coming fixtures.
Manchester United secured a much-needed win over Southampton with goals from Matthijs de Ligt, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho. However, the victory came at a cost, with several players experiencing injury issues during the match. Among the key concerns were Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martinez, both of whom were forced off the pitch with injuries. De Ligt was also substituted, but Ten Hag was quick to clarify that his withdrawal seemed to be due to cramp rather than a serious injury.
Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager, said:
“It looks like [cramp] yes [on De Ligt]. Hopefully it’s nothing serious [on Mazraoui and Martinez]. We have to assess it today or tomorrow, and then we can see.”
Absentees for the Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley
Adding to United’s injury problems, Ten Hag confirmed that Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw will not be available for the upcoming Carabao Cup third-round match against Barnsley. These three players have been sidelined with injuries for a few weeks now, and their absence will limit the manager’s options in the upcoming fixture.
Erik ten Hag added:
“We need everyone and hopefully players are returning. It will not be the case for the next game, but hopefully, in the next weeks, they [Hojlund, Mount and Shaw] will return to the squad.”
United are clear favourites against Barnsley, but Ten Hag will be cautious in how he manages his squad, especially with defensive injuries continuing to plague the team over the past 18 months. Rotation and strategic rest for key players will be necessary to maintain fitness ahead of the more challenging Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
A tough road ahead for Manchester United
While the immediate focus will be on progressing through the Carabao Cup, United will soon face a more challenging task when they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Given the current injury concerns, the Red Devils will need to rally their available players to ensure a strong performance in the Premier League.
Crystal Palace, known for their resilience at home, could pose a significant threat. United's defensive lineup will need to be carefully structured, especially if Martinez and Mazraoui are unable to recover in time. Ten Hag’s ability to manage his squad through this busy period, despite the injuries, will be key to United’s success in the coming weeks.
