Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is set for a spell on the sidelines after “feeling something” during training. Additionally, Amorim revealed that Amad Diallo will be unavailable for the remainder of the season, further compounding United’s injury woes.
The Red Devils have been hit hard by injuries in recent weeks, leading to a youthful substitutes’ bench with an average age of just 19 during their clash against Tottenham Hotspur. Speaking about the situation, Amorim explained:
“Amad [Diallo] was alone, [Manuel] Ugarte was a kick. Toby [Collyer] and Kobbie [Mainoo] felt something. It is what it is, but we have the kids and they have the opportunity to be on the bench. It is a really hard season and we have to deal with that.”
Injuries Take Their Toll on United
Amad Diallo’s absence is particularly significant, as the Ivorian winger has been a key figure under Amorim, starting 11 of his first 13 matches in charge. Losing such an influential player at this stage of the campaign is undoubtedly a blow to the team. However, Amorim remains pragmatic about the challenges posed by injuries.
“I don’t see it like that [as though the world is against us]. There are seasons when everything happens at the same time. Maybe we will find new ways to create situations,” he stated.
Despite the setbacks, Amorim expressed confidence in the club’s younger players stepping up when called upon. He highlighted their potential to turn adversity into opportunity:
“We have kids with less responsibility, less weight on their shoulders. They are good players. If needed we will put the kids to play and maybe we will find good things in this moment. It is a very good moment in their lives, no matter the moment of our club.”
A Testing Season for Manchester United
The ongoing injury crisis has placed additional strain on Manchester United during what has already been a demanding season. Yet, Amorim remains determined to push forward and maintain focus on winning matches.
“We are ready to try to win this game. We want to win this game, we need to win this game. Whatever happens in the end it is my responsibility,” he said resolutely.
A Contrast in Fortunes: Tottenham’s Injury Recovery
While United continue to grapple with their injury list, Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has seen some of his key players return from layoffs. The Australian coach recently spoke about how having senior players back in training has been transformative for his squad:
“Having them [senior players back] in training is the big thing. We have hardly trained over the past two and a half months; it’s mostly been recovery,” Postecoglou noted.
He singled out goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and midfielder James Maddison as pivotal figures returning to action:
“Particularly having Guglielmo Vicario and James Maddison back—not just as the players they are but who they are as well.”
Postecoglou also expressed optimism about his team’s ability to play their preferred style of high-tempo football now that they have more experienced options available:
“For the first time in a long time we have good options off the bench [to help us do that].”
Looking Ahead
As Manchester United prepare for their upcoming fixtures, they face an uphill battle with an injury-depleted squad. However, Ruben Amorim’s belief in his young players could serve as a silver lining during these challenging times. The manager’s resolve and adaptability will be crucial as United navigate this difficult phase of their campaign. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s improving squad depth could make them formidable opponents as both teams look to secure vital points in their respective battles this season.
