Erik ten Hag is having a headache solving Man United ‘s personnel problem when Rasmus Hojlund and Leny Yoro were injured during the pre-season.
Manchester United could be forced to do without star duo Leny Yoro and Rasmus Hojlund , both of whom picked up injuries during their pre-season tour of the United States.
Yoro and Hojlund were forced off injured in the friendly between Man United and Arsenal, with the Norwegian striker limping off just six minutes after scoring the opening goal.
Around 30 minutes later, the Frenchman also suffered a muscle problem. Defender Jonny Evans confirmed Hojlund had a hamstring problem, while reports suggested Yoro could be out for a long time.
If the situation of both players does not improve, coach Erik ten Hag will have to change the lineup in the upcoming friendlies. Worse, this situation could completely last until the beginning of the new season.
Despite his inconsistent form, goalkeeper Andre Onana remains Ten Hag’s first choice in goal. At right-back, Diogo Dalot will be given priority, with Wan-Bissaka as a reserve option.
Dalot is almost certain to start the new season, as the Portuguese star has won the trust of Ten Hag. Another player who the Dutch strategist has put a lot of faith in is Lisandro Martinez. The Argentine international is currently the “Red Devils'” top center-back.
Martinez’s partner is still to be determined following Yoro’s injury. Last season, Victor Lindelof was often preferred to Harry Maguire if United were short on centre-back options.
If fit, Luke Shaw will take up the role of left-back despite the England international’s recent injury problems. In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo is expected to be heavily linked after his impressive performances at EURO 2024.
The young English midfielder was excellent last season and will take on a bigger role in the 2024-2025 campaign. Captain Bruno Fernandes will of course take on the attacking midfield role, as long as he remains at Old Trafford.
The third midfielder will be a tough decision for Ten Hag, with Mason Mount and Toby Collyer both impressing in pre-season. But Ten Hag may opt for the solidity of Scott McTominay to partner Mainoo.
Up front, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho finished last season as first-choice players, and while Amad has shone in pre-season, the youngster still has some work to do.
The final question for Ten Hag after Hojlund’s injury is who will replace the Dane. Fortunately, Man United have planned for exactly this scenario with the signing of Joshua Zirkzee. The Dutch striker will have the opportunity to lead Ten Hag’s attack.
