Chelsea have been hit with news that two of their forwards will be unavailable to face Manchester United as Rúben Amorim provides a positive update on Leny Yoro.
Manchester United are preparing for their penultimate Premier League fixture of the 2024/25 campaign, as Rúben Amorim’s Reds make the trip to London to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Friday evening under the lights.
The clash marks United’s final away game of what has been a hugely disappointing domestic season, with their last outing of the campaign coming at Old Trafford on Sunday 25 May, when they host Aston Villa in M16.
While United will be looking to finish the league season on a positive note, their focus will undoubtedly be shifting towards the Europa League final, where they are set to face Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao on Wednesday 21 May.
Regardless of how the next two league matches unfold, United have already recorded their worst-ever Premier League season, currently sitting 16th in the table with just 39 points to their name.
Chelsea hit with double forward blow
Ahead of the clash, Chelsea have been hit with the news that two of their players will be unavailable to face the Reds as they welcome Amorim’s side to West London.
Last time out, Chelsea fell to a 2-0 loss against Newcastle United, with striker Nicolas Jackson being handed a straight red card after intentionally elbowing Sven Botman in the first half of the fixture.
With the action being deemed as serious foul play, the Senegalese striker has been handed a three-game ban and will therefore not be able to face United on Friday evening.
At the same time, Jadon Sancho will also be ineligible to face his former club as, despite Chelsea’s current obligation to sign him this summer, he is still technically on loan from United for the remainder of the season.
As per FA rules, players on loan are not allowed to face their parent clubs in domestic competitions, with Sancho therefore unavailable for selection as Enzo Maresca selects his side.
Amorim hands United Yoro injury boost
For United, the most significant concern is Leny Yoro’s availability ahead of the Chelsea clash and the Europa League final next week.
Against West Ham on the weekend, Amorim chose to select the 19-year-old from the start, a move which some felt was surprising. The teen star then had to come off injured early in the second half after suffering an apparent foot problem, leaving United fans worried.
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However, after the tie, Amorim eased concerns, explaining that he felt as if Yoro’s injury may only be a minor issue.
“We have to assess Leny in a better way tomorrow [Monday],” Amorim revealed after the game. “He felt something, but I think it could be a small thing.”
The French defender would likely have been rested against Chelsea regardless. Still, Amorim’s positive update gives significant hope that Yoro will be available once the side lines up against Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao in the European final next week.
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