Manchester United’s pre-season preparations have taken a significant hit with the news that new signings Leny Yoro and Rasmus Højlund will be sidelined with injuries. Yoro, a promising young defender, will be out for three months after fracturing a metatarsal, while Højlund, the club’s new striker, is set to miss six weeks due to a hamstring injury. Both injuries were sustained during United’s 2-1 friendly defeat to Arsenal in Los Angeles, adding a layer of concern for manager Erik ten Hag as the new season approaches.
Leny Yoro: A Promising Start Stalled
Leny Yoro’s arrival at Manchester United was met with excitement. The 18-year-old French defender, who joined from Lille, was seen as a long-term investment for United’s defense, with the potential to become a key player under Erik ten Hag. His composure, ball-playing ability, and physical presence made him an exciting addition to the squad, and he was expected to play a role in bolstering United’s backline.
However, Yoro’s integration into the team has been abruptly halted due to a fractured metatarsal, sustained during the friendly against Arsenal. The injury occurred during a routine challenge, but the severity became apparent as the game progressed. Yoro was immediately substituted and later diagnosed with the fracture, which will keep him out of action until at least October.
This injury is a significant setback for both Yoro and Manchester United. For the player, it means missing crucial early-season matches and the opportunity to establish himself in the first team. For United, it leaves a gap in the defensive options, especially considering the club’s recent efforts to rebuild and strengthen their squad.
Rasmus Højlund: A Striker’s Setback
Rasmus Højlund, the Danish striker signed from Atalanta, was brought in to provide a new focal point for United’s attack. His combination of physicality, pace, and finishing ability made him an ideal candidate to lead the line for the Red Devils. Højlund was expected to hit the ground running, offering United a different dimension in the final third.
This injury is a significant blow to Manchester United’s attacking plans. Højlund was expected to be the main striker, filling a role that has been problematic for United in recent seasons. His absence now forces ten Hag to reconsider his attacking options, possibly relying on other forwards like Marcus Rashford or Anthony Martial, who themselves have had their own injury issues in the past.
Impact on Manchester United’s Season
The injuries to Yoro and Højlund have immediate implications for Manchester United’s start to the season. Defensively, Yoro’s absence could lead to more reliance on the experienced pairing of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, with Victor Lindelof likely providing cover. However, the lack of depth in defense could be a concern, especially with the potential for further injuries or suspensions.
In attack, Højlund’s injury disrupts ten Hag’s plans to revitalize United’s frontline. The club struggled for goals last season, and the addition of Højlund was seen as a solution to that problem. Without him, United may have to look to other sources for goals, potentially altering their tactical approach.
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