Manchester United’s Injury Woes Deepen Ahead of Europa League Showdown with Real Sociedad
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is facing a mounting crisis as his squad could be without up to 11 players for their crucial Europa League clash against Real Sociedad on Thursday night. With their FA Cup hopes shattered by Fulham last weekend, the Europa League now stands as United’s last shot at silverware this season.
The Red Devils have been plagued by injuries in recent weeks, and the situation seems to be going from bad to worse. Nine players were already sidelined before the Fulham game, including key names like Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Kobbie Mainoo, and Mason Mount. Now, Amorim could be forced to add two more absentees to that list.
Defender Harry Maguire, who had been one of United’s more reliable performers this season, was forced off during the FA Cup defeat, leaving his availability for Thursday in doubt. The Portuguese boss is awaiting further updates from the medical team, but the signs aren’t looking promising.
Adding to the headache, young striker Chido Obi-Martin, who made a lively impression when he came on against Fulham, will be unavailable as he was not registered for the Europa League. With United’s attacking options already limited, this comes as another setback.
Can United Overcome the Odds?
This injury crisis could not have come at a worse time for Amorim, who is already under pressure to deliver in his debut season. The FA Cup loss to Fulham was a bitter pill to swallow, and with no domestic trophies left to chase, United’s European campaign is now a defining moment for the team.
However, injuries should not be used as an excuse. The best teams find a way to win even when the odds are stacked against them. Manchester United, a club with a history of triumphing in adversity, must show that same resilience against Real Sociedad.
Amorim will need to find tactical solutions, and this might be the perfect opportunity for fringe players to step up. The likes of Scott McTominay, Hannibal Mejbri, and Omari Forson could be called upon to make a difference. The squad’s depth will be tested, and if United can pull off a result in Spain despite their injury woes, it could be a season-defining moment for Amorim and his team.
With the weight of expectation heavy on their shoulders, the question remains: Will Manchester United rise above their struggles, or will their injury crisis spell the end of their European dreams? Thursday night will provide the answer.