UPDATED: Manchester United Facegação Injury Crisis Ahead of Europa League Clash with Athletic Club Bilbao
Triple Blow for Manchester United: Injury Crisis Looms Over Bilbao Trip
The Manchester United camp is in a frenzy as they brace themselves for a significant injury crisis ahead of their vital Europa League encounter against Athletic Club Bilbao. The Red Devils have been dealt a triple blow, with key players dropping like dominoes in the buildup to the first-leg clash at the San Mamés Stadium.
“It’s not been a great week for us in terms of injuries. We’ve got a few absentees, key players who will miss out on the trip to Bilbao,” confirmed a Manchester United spokesperson, highlighting the considerable setback.
Who’s Out? A Heavy Price to Pay
- Raphinha: The Brazilian winger is out with a suspected hamstring strain, leaving a significant gap in United’s attacking line.
- Harry Maguire: The England captain and United’s defensive rock is also ruled out due to an ankle injury.
- Jadon Sancho: The young England international has joined the injury list, nursing a niggling knock that’s kept him out of training.
More Woes for the Visitors: De Ligt Out for Bilbao
Athletic Bilbao, too, have their injury woes. Jeffrey Dewinter, the Belgian defender, will miss the game due to an injury picked up in training. The loss of Dewinter joins an already lengthy injury list for the Basque outfit.
“De Ligt will not be available for selection. It’s a blow, but we must stay strong and focus on the players we have,” said a Bilbao spokesperson.
United Names 24-Man Squad, kingsley Coman Injury Doubt
Despite the injuries, Manchester United has named a 24-man squad for the Bilbao trip. Kingsley Coman, who has been nursing an injury, missed the final training session, casting doubt over his participation. The Frenchman’s presence will be assessed until the last moment.
Europeans Build-up: Man Utd News Conference Ahead of Bilbao Tie
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is set to face the press today, with updates on team news and tactics expected. The press conference will provide an insight into how the team plans to cope with the injury crisis and counter the host’s threat.
Beware of ‘Momentum’: United Warned of Potential Bilbao Second-Leg Threat
BBC Sport reports that Manchester United has been warned about the potential threat of Athletic Bilbao’s ‘momentum’ going into the second leg. The 2021 Spanish Super Cup winners have been in impressive form recently, with several key players returning to fitness.
“They are a dangerous side at home. Their momentum can be a considerable threat,” added a United insider.
United’s Grit and Resilience Rely on Key Survivors
The injury crisis has forced Manchester United to dig deep, with key survivors like Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Lisandro Martinez set to anchor the team. The trio’s performance will be crucial in neutralizing Bilbao’s threat and giving United a fighting chance to advance in the Europa League.
Did you know?
The last time Athletic Bilbao reached the Europa League semi-finals was in 2011-12, while Manchester United’s best-ever run resulted in victory in 2016-17.
Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on Bilbao’s striker, Inaki Williams. His pace and intelligent off-the-ball movement pose a significant threat to United’s makeshift defense.
FAQs
- Who are the key players United’s missing for the game?
- Raphinha, Harry Maguire, and Jadon Sancho are the key players Manchester United will miss due to injury.
- How does Bilbao’s injury crisis compare to United’s?
- Bilbao has also been struck by injuries, losing key defender Jeffrey Dewinter for the game.
- When is the Manchester United press conference?
- Erik ten Hag is scheduled to face the press today, ahead of the Bilbao clash.
The Road Ahead for Manchester United
The Manchester United camp faces a daunting test in Bilbao, with the injury crisis casting a long shadow over their Europa League hopes. However, with the resilience and grit shown this season, United fans can still hope for a positive result. Stay tuned to 247sports.news for the latest updates and team news.
Join the conversation: Have your say on how Manchester United can cope with the injury crisis. Share your thoughts in the comments below!