Manchester United’s early season optimism has been dampened by a spate of injuries that have left manager Erik ten Hag grappling with a depleted squad. The Dutch tactician, known for his meticulous approach, now faces the challenge of navigating a congested fixture list without several key players at his disposal.
Injury Crisis Mounts at Old Trafford
The Red Devils’ treatment room is becoming increasingly crowded, with no fewer than seven first-team players currently sidelined. The list of absentees includes Leny Yoro, Ramsus Højlund, Luke Shaw, Mason Mount, Jonny Evans, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelöf, while Tyrell Malacia remains a long-term absentee.
The situation worsened during United’s 1-1 Europa League draw against Fenerbahce on Thursday, as Antony, a late substitute, was stretchered off the pitch. The extent of the Brazilian winger’s injury is yet to be determined, but it serves as another blow to Ten Hag’s plans.
Ten Hag Demands Collaborative Effort
Faced with this mounting crisis, Ten Hag has called for a united front in addressing the club’s fitness woes. Speaking after the Fenerbahce match, the United boss emphasized the need for collaboration between players, coaching staff, and medical personnel.
“We need more players, often available. And then we have to work all together on this point. And that is the players, the coaching staff, all the other staff. We have to do better to get more available players.”
Erik ten Hag on Manchester United’s injury situation
Ten Hag’s comments underscore the collective responsibility in ensuring squad fitness and availability. The Dutchman believes that having a full complement of players is crucial to United’s success, both domestically and in Europe.
Impact on United’s Aspirations
The injury crisis has already taken its toll on United’s early season form. The club currently sits 12th in the Premier League table, while their Europa League campaign has gotten off to a stuttering start, with three consecutive draws leaving them 21st in the 36-club table.
Ten Hag acknowledges that the absence of key players has hindered United’s progress, stating:
“That holds us back in our levels, also in our position in the league. Because when you don’t have the players available, you can’t line up the best team. And that is what’s holding us back at this moment.”
Erik ten Hag on the impact of injuries on Manchester United’s performances
Ugarte’s Promising Display
Amidst the injury concerns, Ten Hag found solace in the performance of Manuel Ugarte, who started for the first time since the 3-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur on September 29th. The midfielder completed 90 minutes for the first time since joining United in the summer.
Ten Hag praised Ugarte’s display, highlighting the importance of the holding midfield role in his tactical setup:
“The 6 position is a key position in your team, and he has to learn this position in our game model. [This] is a step forward – I am really pleased with his performance – and from here on he has to build.”
Erik ten Hag on Manuel Ugarte’s performance against Fenerbahce
The Road Ahead
As Manchester United prepares for a crucial Premier League clash against West Ham United on Sunday, Ten Hag will be hoping for positive news from the treatment room. The return of experienced defender Jonny Evans could provide a timely boost to the backline.
However, the Dutchman knows that a long-term solution to United’s injury woes lies in a collaborative effort from all stakeholders. By working together to optimize training loads, recovery protocols, and squad rotation, Ten Hag believes United can build a more resilient and competitive squad.
The coming weeks will test Manchester United’s depth and resolve as they navigate a demanding schedule with a depleted squad. Ten Hag’s ability to rally his troops and find solutions amidst adversity will be crucial in determining the club’s fortunes this season.
