Manchester United fell to a 4-3 defeat in a seven-goal thriller against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium in the Premier League on Sunday.
Manager Ruben Amorim fielded a heavily rotated side, with one eye firmly on Thursday’s important Europa League semi-final clash against Athletic Bilbao.
It was a surprise to see Matthijs de Ligt named in the starting XI, just days after making his return from a month-long layoff due to a foot injury.
De Ligt had to be replaced by Harry Maguire after picking up an injury in the build-up to Brentford’s second goal.
Speaking after the game, United head coach Ruben Amorim expressed concern about the severity of De Ligt’s setback.
He said to Sky Sports (via BBC Sport): “I don’t know so I’m really concerned – not about Thursday.
“We took off Luke Shaw at half-time to protect and have players for Thursday, but I’m more concerned whether it is a small or big injury and thinking about next season.”
The Dutch international had stretched to challenge Yoane Wissa in the 32nd minute but appeared to injure himself in the process.
He hobbled off shortly afterwards and was replaced by Maguire.
It is a major setback for United, especially with the midweek showdown against Athletic looming.
He could have started on the right side of the back three against the Spanish side on Thursday.
His injury will now force Amorim to field either Luke Shaw or Victor Lindelof alongside Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro.
De Ligt did not enjoy the best of returns to the starting XI. The 25-year-old failed to register a single tackle and did not complete any of his three attempted long balls.
Amorim brought Maguire on in his place, despite having the option to use Lindelof.
He would have ideally wanted the England international to play not more than 30 minutes but it was a gamble he had to take.
United fans will hope that De Ligt’s injury is not serious and that he can make a swift return to the pitch before the end of the season.
Stats from FotMob.com
