Manchester United’s preseason preparations have been disrupted by a series of injuries to key players, raising concerns ahead of the new campaign.
The club has confirmed four injuries during their tour, with two players facing extended periods on the sidelines.
New signing Leny Yoro has been ruled out for approximately three months with a foot injury.
The 18-year-old defender, who recently joined United from Lille for £58.9m, limped off during a friendly against Arsenal.
The club stated, “Yoro has opted to stay with the team on tour, with further assessment to be carried out upon his return to the UK.”
In another blow, striker Rasmus Højlund is set to miss six weeks due to a hamstring injury.
Initially thought to be a minor issue, the club confirmed, “Højlund scored against Arsenal but then went off in the 16th minute and will also miss the start of the season.”
The injury list grew during United’s 3-2 victory over Real Betis, with both Marcus Rashford and Antony being substituted due to apparent injuries.
Rashford appeared to have an issue with his right ankle, while Antony was withdrawn with a hand problem.
Tom Heaton, speaking to Sky Sports News, described both substitutions as “precautionary.”
These injuries could have a significant impact on United’s start to the season.
Sky Sports News senior reporter Melissa Reddy said, “It’s a massive double blow to Erik ten Hag’s plans for the new campaign and heightens United’s need to fortify the heart of their defence.”
The club now faces a race against time to get players fit for their upcoming fixtures.
United are set to face Manchester City in the Community Shield on 10 August, followed by their Premier League opener against Fulham on 16 August. The high-profile clash with Liverpool on 1 September looms large, with Højlund potentially still unavailable.
