As the FA Cup final looms, Manchester United get mixed news on the injury front. Erik ten Hag confirmed that Harry Maguire will miss the clash against Manchester City, dashing hopes for a last-minute recovery. Maguire’s leg muscle injury initially deemed a “fair chance” to heal, hasn’t improved as expected. His absence adds to the defensive woes, though he remains hopeful for England’s Euro 2024 campaign.
On a brighter note, United welcomes back Mason Mount, Victor Lindelof, and Anthony Martial. Ten Hag expressed optimism in Thursday’s press conference, saying, “Tomorrow is the final training session and we’ll make the final decisions, but the way I see it now it looks good.” This triple boost comes at a crucial time for the Red Devils, aiming to end the season on a high note.
Mount, who struggled with a calf injury, has had a tough first season at United with only 19 appearances since moving from Chelsea. Lindelof, last seen in action in March, and Martial, recovering from groin surgery, are also set to be available. Martial’s return is particularly poignant as he looks to end his United stint on a positive note before his contract expires this summer.
Marcus Rashford, despite being expected to start on the bench, could play a pivotal role. Ten Hag is confident Rashford will bounce back from missing out on the Euros squad.
“He looks good,” Ten Hag said. “These are the ups and downs of a career, a down can also give fuel – and that is what I see in training. He will be highly motivated, speak with his feet, [he’s] highly intelligent, he has had a big career… I’m sure he will get over this and get more goals.”
As United gears up for the FA Cup final against their city rivals, these returning players could be the difference-makers. With a season marred by inconsistency, this final offers a shot at redemption and a chance to secure silverware, providing a much-needed morale boost for Ten Hag and his squad.
