With the highly anticipated Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur looming in less than two weeks’ time, Ruben Amorim, the Manchester United head coach, is set to make significant changes to his team for Sunday’s Premier League clash against West Ham at Old Trafford.
Amorim has issued a stern warning to his star players, emphasizing the need for peak sharpness in the season-defining showdown in Bilbao on May 21. Following the midweek semi-final victory against Athletic Club, several key players are expected to be given a well-deserved rest. This decision comes despite the fact that a much-altered United side struggled defensively in their away game against Brentford last weekend, suffering a 4-3 defeat, which marked the club’s record 16th league loss of the season.
Skipper Bruno Fernandes, defenders Harry Maguire and Noussair Mazraoui, midfielder Casemiro, and winger Alejandro Garnacho will all be omitted from Sunday’s starting lineup. However, Amorim acknowledges the importance of match sharpness ahead of the crucial encounter with Spurs. As a result, these players are likely to return to the team for next Friday’s away fixture against Chelsea.
Amorim said key players will feature, though he’ll safeguard those at risk of injury. With the Chelsea game rescheduled to Friday, there’s more recovery time. Bruno is fit, but Harry has an issue that needs managing. Amorim added, “It’s better for them to play.” As for doubtful players, they’ll push, but the club won’t take risks.
The United boss expressed confidence in his players’ determination, saying, “Of course, they will fight for a place in the final. They will be ready, excited. That’s a good thing, not just for the final, but also to prepare for the games of the Premier League, with something in our minds that we can win. It’s going to be massive.” He also noted the positive impact of limited training sessions, “I think it’s a good thing for the players that we will not have a lot of training sessions. They will fight for their places in the final in these next two games.” Amorim also pointed out the distraction in the Brentford game, “Against Brentford, we made some mistakes and I felt that some of our players were thinking about this game [against Bilbao].”
Victor Lindelof and Manuel Ugarte might be the sole players to keep their starting spots from Thursday’s game. Altay Bayindir is set to replace Andre Onana in goal. Tyler Fredricson and Luke Shaw could start in defense, swapping Maguire and Leny Yoro. Christian Eriksen and Harry Amass may feature in midfield, with Chido Obi leading the attack. Mason Mount could also start.