Manchester United’s pre-season game against Arsenal was blighted by injuries to two key players.
2023/24 was a disaster for Manchester United when it came to injuries. These began in a pre-season friendly against Arsenal when Amad got injured. Kobbie Mainoo suffered the same fate in the next game.
Now, the 2024/25 pre-season tour has got off to a similarly disastrous start.
Leny Yoro and Rasmus Hojlund both limped off in the first half of the friendly match with Arsenal.
Rasmus Hojlund and Leny Yoro injured
Manchester United defender Jonny Evans spoke to BBC Sport about the injury blows suffered to his two teammates.
He said: “You don’t want any injuries, especially in pre-season. That is one of the biggest things to try and avoid.”
Evans explained he was clearer on Hojlund’s injury than Leny Yoro’s.
He said: “Muscle injuries aren’t good and Rasmus hinted it was his hamstring. I am not sure about Leny yet. Hopefully it’s not too bad.”
The Times report Hojlund is a ‘doubt’ to face Real Betis later this week, while adding Yoro’s could be ‘more serious’.
A low-key pre-season required
Flying halfway around the world for pre-season is desired by Machester United from a commercial perspective. The US tour could net United millions.
However, it may not be conducive to the health of the players, highlighted by the two recent injuries.
Next year it would be much more preferable to see United set up base in Europe, and play in the same city for all of the matches. Less travelling time, and more consistency.
Questions have also been asked about the turf at the stadium, laid specially for the game, to replace the usual artificial stadium. Playing on pitches more regularly used for football games, are no doubt more beneficial to the players.
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