Erik ten Hag has just given his first press conference of the season and it brings bad news.
Manchester United kick-off the 2024/25 season on Saturday against Manchester City in the Community Shield.
This game represents what is ultimately a glorified friendly, but with silverware and bragging rights on offer, Erik ten Hag will be desperate for a repeat of May 25th.
However, two major injuries during pre-season have left United thin in certain areas, with both Leny Yoro and Rasmus Hojlund out for extended periods.
But now Ten Hag has confirmed that these are not the only players facing an absence from Wembley on Saturday afternoon.
Erik ten Hag confirms four doubts to face City
Speaking with the media on Thursday for his pre-match press conference, Ten Hag brought bad news for fans in the form of four more potential absentees.
As quoted by Manchester Evening News, the manager explained the situation.
“Harry Maguire missed the game [vs Liverpool], was a precaution but is still a question mark for Saturday. So we have training, we have to see whether he is fit enough or not to be available.
“Victor [Lindelof] played but also he’s a question mark and also Azza [Aaron Wan-Bissaka] and Luke Shaw are both question marks, we have to assess them tomorrow [Friday].”
This is a significant blow and leaves just three senior defenders fit – with Tyrell Malacia also absent.
There was some good news though, with Ten Hag admitting he is of the thinking that Lisandro Martinez will play in the game.
Ten Hag did not specify whether the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho will play, so we assume that they will be in action.
How will Manchester United’s defence line up?
With the four injuries in mind, selecting a back-line seems quite simple for Ten Hag with just four options to choose from – assuming none of the four end up beating fitness tests.
Diogo Dalot will likely start at right back, making his return from a prolonged holiday after Euro 2024. Meanwhile, in central defence, Jonny Evans looks set to start alongside Martinez who is fresh off Copa America glory and will want another medal.
Left-back is a little trickier with Shaw being assessed on Friday, but if he is not fit to play then it could be that Harry Amass is handed his full debut.
The 17-year-old impressed during pre-season for United and has more than earned his place in the team – although ideally, Shaw will play.
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