The Premier League is back in action and Manchester United are setting their sights on a triumphant start to the 2024/25 season, as they face off against Fulham at Old Trafford tonight.
Erik ten Hag's third term at the helm of the Red Devils comes with heightened expectations following significant investment from Ineos during the summer transfer window. The club has welcomed four new players - Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui - with over £140million splashed out thus far.
Despite the influx of fresh talent, United are heading into the new football season with several key first-team members sidelined due to injuries. However, there is some good news as De Ligt and Mazraoui have been training with their new colleagues, putting them in contention for their debuts tonight.
Defence remains a concern for Ten Hag. Hopes were high that Luke Shaw would be fit to kick off the season after missing most of last year, but the left-back has been ruled out before even a single ball has been kicked.
On Tuesday, it was announced that Shaw will miss the beginning of the new campaign due to a calf injury. United have stated that Shaw 'is working hard on his rehabilitation with a view to being available after the first international break'.
Adding to the defensive woes, deputy left-back Tyrell Malacia is also unavailable, having been injured for over a year. The Dutchman last took to the pitch for the club on the final day of the 2022/23 season but could make a comeback in the coming months.
"He is not that far [off], but he is now in a progress situation," Ten Hag revealed.
"At a relatively short notice, he can again return into team training and then into team performance in games. I think it would be possible [to be available again] in two months."
The club's summer acquisition Yoro is also sidelined after a metatarsal fracture sustained during pre-season, with the youngster facing a three-month layoff post-surgery. Ten Hag remains optimistic, noting: "He is being positive," and adding, "He's already started his rehab. There is a fire burning there and as I've said, for his age he is very mature. He won't get distracted and he knows what he wants."
Meanwhile, Victor Lindelof's status remains uncertain following his absence since the pre-season loss to Liverpool, with no update from Ten Hag ahead of the clash against Manchester City.
In attack, Rasmus Hojlund's second season kick-off has been postponed due to a hamstring injury, potentially keeping him out for six weeks, which could see his return after the September international break.
