Manchester United face a crucial Premier League encounter against Liverpool at Old Trafford this Sunday, hoping to recover from a recent defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.
However, Erik ten Hag’s squad will be significantly weakened due to a series of injuries, adding further challenges as they prepare for this high-stakes clash.
Manchester United’s defensive line-up will be notably depleted. Both of the team’s senior left-backs, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, are sidelined. Shaw is dealing with a long-term issue, while Malacia has also been struggling with fitness.
This injury crisis will likely see Diogo Dalot shift to the left side of defence, with new signing Noussair Mazraoui expected to take up the right-back position.
Additionally, young centre-back Leny Yoro is out for several months following a pre-season injury, with a return not expected before November.
The defensive issues are compounded by Victor Lindelof’s absence due to a toe injury, further stretching the squad’s defensive options.
In midfield, United will be without new signing Manuel Ugarte, who has yet to be registered in time for the Liverpool match. Ugarte’s absence is a blow, but he is anticipated to join the squad after the upcoming international break.
Adding to the midfield concerns, Mason Mount is set to miss the game against Liverpool. Mount, who was sidelined for a considerable part of the previous season, picked up an injury during the match against Brighton and is expected to be out for the remainder of the month.
Up front, Manchester United will also be missing Rasmus Hojlund, who is recovering from a hamstring strain suffered during pre-season.
The Danish forward’s return is anticipated after the international break, leaving a gap in United’s attacking options.
In light of these injuries, Ten Hag may continue using Bruno Fernandes as a false nine, a tactic he has employed in recent games.
Joshua Zirkzee, who scored on his debut against Fulham, may also play a role, but the overall attacking strategy will be adjusted to accommodate the available players.
Even though Manchester United is plagued by injuries, the available players offer real quality that could give problems to Liverpool
