Manchester United has been hit with a fresh injury setback as Kobbie Mainoo faces an extended spell on the sidelines, potentially missing up to seven matches in a crucial period for manager Erik ten Hag. The 19-year-old midfielder was forced to withdraw from the England squad last week due to a muscular problem, indicating a significant period of recovery ahead.
Ten Hag, who has been under pressure following a challenging start to the season, survived the sack during the recent international break. News of Mainoo’s injury comes as a blow to the manager’s hopes for a turnaround in the team’s fortunes on the field, with the midfielder expected to be out beyond the next international break in November.
Manchester United is set to face Brentford in the Premier League this weekend, followed by a Europa League game against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce. Subsequent fixtures against West Ham, Leicester in the Carabao Cup, Chelsea, and PAOK loom ahead in a busy schedule before the next international break. The team is then scheduled to meet Steve Cooper’s side before the break.
In addition to Mainoo’s injury, captain Harry Maguire is also facing a spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury in the same game against Aston Villa. However, there is some positive news for United as Noussair Mazraoui returned to training after a recent medical procedure to address heart palpitations. It remains uncertain whether Mazraoui will be fit for the upcoming match against Brentford.
Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are back in training after missing games for their respective national teams. They are expected to be available for selection against Brentford, providing some relief for the team amid the injury setbacks.
The latest developments in the team’s injury list add further challenges for Manchester United as they navigate a demanding schedule in the coming weeks. Ten Hag will have to find solutions to cope with the absence of key players as they look to turn their season around.