Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has provided the latest team news ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa.
Ten Hag oversaw United’s thrilling 3-3 draw with FC Porto in the Europa League on Thursday evening. Harry Maguire’s late header secured a point at the Estádio do Dragão. Now, the Reds are gearing up for another tough test, this time against Unai Emery’s in-form Aston Villa.
Emery’s side impressed midweek with a 1-0 victory over German giants Bayern Munich, courtesy of Jhon Duran’s spectacular strike.
In his post-match press conference, Ten Hag shared insights on player availability for the upcoming match in the Midlands.
“We had three players with issues going into this game,” Ten Hag explained when asked about his squad’s condition. “Harry Maguire, Alejandro Garnacho, and Kobbie Mainoo. Harry and Alejandro were fit enough to make the squad and play some minutes, but Kobbie didn’t make it due to the risk.”
The boss added that Mainoo’s involvement against Villa remains uncertain. “We’ll have to wait and see if he’s fit enough to start or be on the bench.”
Despite this uncertainty, United have been handed a boost with Mainoo resuming training in Portugal after being withdrawn during the defeat to Spurs. Mason Mount, who also picked up a knock against Tottenham, did not travel to Porto as a precaution. It remains unclear if the England international will be fit for Sunday.
On a positive note, Rasmus Højlund returned from injury to score his first competitive goal of the season on Thursday, slotting past Diogo Costa. Garnacho and Maguire also played pivotal roles in the dramatic six-goal thriller, and all three are expected to be in contention for Sunday’s match.
Elsewhere, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, and Victor Lindelof continue their individual recoveries, while Leny Yoro remains a long-term absentee.
Aston Villa Team News
Aston Villa will be without Boubacar Kamara and Tyrone Mings, both of whom are recovering from knee injuries. Midfielder John McGinn is also nursing a hamstring injury sustained during the 3-1 win against Wolves.
Amadou Onana was substituted for Ross Barkley in midweek, and it remains uncertain if either he or Jacob Ramsey will be fit to feature against Manchester United.
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