Sancho’s resolution and Amrabat’s injury provide the ideal Premier League return for Manchester United.
Since their 3-1 loss to Arsenal, Manchester United have been plagued by a multitude of issues during the international break.
In addition to the loss and injury concerns, Jadon Sancho’s public refutation of Erik ten Hag’s training claims has, at the very least, stirred up the fan base. The Saudi window has now closed, but the winger remains a member of United.
In the meantime, Antony’s return from his international vacation is being delayed due to allegations of sexual misconduct against him, which he denies. Last week, he was cut from the Brazil national team.
After an inauspicious beginning, United will be eager to return to the field. The Reds have picked up just six points in their opening four games and lie 11th in the Premier League table.
In the first game return, against Brighton, a positive performance is required. Here is how Ten Hag’s ideal week would unfold prior to Saturday.
Sancho decision
Regardless of who is right or wrong, this sticky situation must be resolved as soon as feasible. Sancho remains on United’s payroll and is subject to his manager’s discretion.
As was evident during his tenure in Germany, the winger is a very talented footballer who is still very valuable.
The optimal scenario involves Sancho and Ten Hag resolving their differences in private while Sancho focuses on his preparation prior to his inclusion in the lineup against Brighton.
How probable is that? Well, MEN Sport has learned that Ten Hag stands by his remarks from the press conference, whereas Sancho has pinned his social media statement to the top of his profile…
Amrabat, Hojlund, and other damage enhancers
Lisandro Martinez is back in full training with Argentina after missing their first match of the break against Bolivia due to a foot injury he suffered against Arsenal.
Martinez missed Argentina’s first match of the break against Bolivia due to the injury. Rasmus Hojlund has made two flawless substitute appearances for Denmark since his United debut after a back injury.
Sofyan Amrabat’s condition is more ambiguous. Following an unspecified issue, he voluntarily withdrew from the Morocco team. This eliminates the possibility of any further injury being inflicted.
The most favorable consequence is that United will allow Amrabat to make his debut against Brighton following his transfer on the transfer deadline.
This week, he is meeting his new teammates and getting acclimated to the United way, so he would most likely appear off the bench. More than a two-game absence would be inconvenient, particularly given the upcoming start of the Champions League.
Six points increase to nine
If there’s one team you don’t want to play after a hiatus, it’s the slick and superb Seagulls. Brighton, who currently have nine points, will begin their exciting European journey the following Thursday, so they may be keeping a watch on AEK Athens’ Europa League performance.
Last season, they defeated United on opening day, so Saturday’s match is an opportunity for the Reds to demonstrate their improvement under Ten Hag.
United will attempt to exact vengeance on the south-coasters with players returning from injury and the dread of another loss driving them on. As Hojlund makes his Old Trafford debut, it is possible that he will start and score.
Sancho’s resolution and Amrabat’s injury provide the ideal Premier League return for Manchester United.