Manchester United could see one important player return for this weekend’s clash against Liverpool away at Anfield.
Manchester United’s international players have returned from international duty as the squad prepares for a short trip to Anfield this weekend. Rúben Amorim needs an impressive performance if he is to keep United fans on side after a poor start to the season.
Before the international break, United comfortably took victory against newly promoted Sunderland at Old Trafford. Senne Lammens impressed on his Red Devils debut, with Altay Bayindir dropping out of the starting lineup for the first time in the Premier League this season.
The young Belgian shotstopper was one of many United players to travel away during the break, but will be hoping for a return to the starting side against Liverpool. Both of Amorim’s goalkeepers were involved on international duty, but neither appeared.
While both first-team goalkeepers were away, most of the defenders stayed at Carrington during the break. Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro both played for their countries’ youth sides, but United’s central defenders weren’t represented on the international stage.
Lisandro Martínez – who would be a regular in the Argentina squad – looks set to return to United training before the next international break in November, but is unlikely to be involved this weekend. However, one “incredibly talented” defender could return to the ranks after injury.
Mazraoui could return for Liverpool
Mazraoui has struggled with injuries since the end of last season. He featured in the first pre-season match against Leeds United but didn’t play again until the 3-2 win over Burnley, where he delivered a brilliant cameo towards the end of the match.
The Moroccan’s last appearance was in United’s 2-1 home win against Chelsea, playing as a right-wing-back with no Amad or Diogo Dalot available. While Amad impressed in that role against Sunderland, Dalot has struggled this season and continued to do so for Portugal in the break.
While he may not start against Liverpool, Mazraoui’s return would be a boost to Amorim’s hopes, and Samuel Luckhurst of The Sun has provided a positive update. He underwent medical tests at Carrington this week and could return in time to be in contention against Liverpool.
Mazraoui’s fitness levels will likely be confirmed when United broadcasts a section of team training on Thursday in the lead-up to the game. Martínez could also return to training, but he won’t be involved in the whole session if he does.
Mazraoui deserves a starting spot
Mazraoui hasn’t had a natural spot in the United team since Erik ten Hag was replaced by Amorim in November of last season, but he has been among the most crucial players in the squad. Last season, Mazraoui played 37 times in the Premier League – 34 from the start – and 14 times in the Europa League.
The former Bayern Munich defender joined United alongside Matthijs de Ligt and deserves a starting spot alongside the Dutchman. He has been one of the most consistent players at the club during an incredibly inconsistent period at Old Trafford.
Read More: Casemiro’s Manchester United contract renewal ‘not ruled out’, it relies on one key factor
Luke Shaw has started alongside de Ligt and Yoro for most games this season, but will likely lose his place when Martínez returns to full fitness. Mazraoui could take his place for the time being, while also featuring at left-wing-back or right-wing-back.
Patrick Dorgu has struggled at times this season, and a spell on the sidelines for a consistent performer – meaning Mazraoui over Dalot – could benefit the young Dane, who scored on international duty.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.