Manchester United’s head coach, Ruben Amorim, has announced an 18-man squad for the Europa League match against Real Sociedad, scheduled for Thursday night at the Reale Arena.
As they prepare for the first leg of their last-16 encounter in Spain, the team faces additional injury challenges, with both Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte unavailable. Neither player participated in the open training session held at Carrington on Wednesday morning.
Maguire sustained an injury during the FA Cup fifth round penalty shootout loss to Fulham on Sunday, leading to his substitution before the commencement of extra time. He was replaced by young talent Ayden Heaven, who made his debut after joining from Arsenal last month.
The absence of Maguire is particularly significant as United is already missing fellow centre-back Lisandro Martinez, who is sidelined due to an ACL injury sustained at the beginning of last month, further complicating Amorim’s defensive options.
Conversely, Toby Collyer is in contention to make his return from a muscle injury, having been included in the traveling squad. He participated in training with the main group at Carrington earlier today after being absent for the last four matches.
Patrick Dorgu has returned to the squad following his absence during the defeat to Fulham due to suspension. He received a red card in the match against Ipswich Town last week, resulting in a three-match ban; however, this suspension is limited to domestic competitions. Additionally, Harry Amass has been included in the 18-man squad.
In other news, United will once again be without several players, including Altay Bayindir, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, and Mason Mount, as they continue their recovery from injuries. Furthermore, Chido Obi will not be part of the traveling squad, having been omitted from United’s updated roster for the Europa League knockout stages.
Confirmed travelling squad:
Goalkeepers: Andre Onana, Elyh Harrison, Dermot Mee.
Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, Matthijs de Ligt, Ayden Heaven, Victor Lindelof, Leny Yoro, Patrick Dorgu, Harry Amass.
Midfielders: Casemiro, Toby Collyer, Christian Eriksen, Bruno Fernandes.
Attackers: Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee, Rasmus Hojlund.