Manchester United’s defensive options were dealt another blow as Noussair Mazraoui was left out of the matchday squad for the Europa League clash with Rangers due to a knock sustained in the defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed the decision was precautionary as the club manages a growing list of fitness concerns ahead of their trip to Fulham on Sunday night.
The Europa League encounter saw further disruptions to United’s backline, with Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro both substituted after complaining of discomfort.
De Ligt, who had a goal controversially ruled out during the first half, did not return after the break, replaced by Harry Maguire.
Yoro, meanwhile, lasted just ten minutes of the second half before being taken off, prompting Tyrell Malacia’s introduction and a tactical reshuffle that shifted Diogo Dalot into a back-three role.
Speaking to MUTV, Amorim addressed the substitutions, explaining the necessity of prioritising player welfare.
“He [De Ligt] has a pain, so he cannot risk [it].”
“Leny felt pain also, so he cannot risk [it]. We have a lot of players who can play, and we cannot lose anybody.”
“Everybody has to be prepared.”
There was some relief for United fans as Victor Lindelof returned to training and could be available for selection against Fulham.
With Mazraoui’s fitness being monitored and concerns over De Ligt and Yoro, Amorim faces a challenge in assembling a robust defensive line for the coming fixtures.
His focus will now shift to ensuring his squad’s depth and fitness as United juggle domestic and European commitments in the weeks ahead.
Featured image by Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Raj Dholakia
Raj is a seasoned digital writer and editor with a deep-seated passion for football. With over four years in the digital space, he has contributed to Sportlens, ManUtdNews, and is now proudly writing for The Peoples Person. His work is driven by a commitment to capture the essence of football, delivering content that speaks to the heart of fans worldwide.
