Manchester United’s rising number of injuries are compounding their challenges this season.
Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Leny Yoro are long-term absentees. Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount are also out injured.
Mainoo enjoyed a breakthrough 2023/24 season and kept his performance levels high before suffering a muscle injury earlier this month.
The 19-year-old posted an injury update on his Instagram account saying: “Be right back.”
The midfielder is not expected to return until after the next international break in November.
Mainoo has been a critical player for United, featuring nine times across competitions.
He has averaged two interceptions and 2.3 tackles per league game this season.
United are impressed with his meteoric rise and are reportedly planning to offer him a new contract with improved terms.
He is currently the lowest-paid first-team player at the club on the £20,000-per-week deal.
Mainno deserves a substantial raise for his fantastic contribution to the team over the past 12 months.
United are struggling in midfield and Ten Hag will be hoping that Mainoo will make a timely return.
In his absence, Christian Eriksen is fulfilling the role of a number eight.
The Denmark international is in fine form and has provided significant support to United’s attack.
However, questions remain about his defensive capabilities, as he doesn’t possess the engine to cover every blade of grass.
Stats from sofascore.com.
