Manchester United’s decision on Noussair Mazraoui has been revealed after Ruben Amorim’s squad trained at Carrington ahead of their Europa League semi-final decider against Athletic Club.
After a convincing 3-0 victory in Bilbao, Manchester United return to Old Trafford with a strong advantage in their Europa League semi-final tie.
Goals from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro gave United a commanding lead in the first leg, a match where Athletic Club were reduced to 10 men in the first half. Despite the cushion, Ruben Amorim will be urging his players to stay focused, as the job is far from finished.
Athletic are expected to come out fighting, determined to overturn the deficit and keep their hopes of a home final alive—this year’s final will be held in Bilbao.
United, meanwhile, will aim to control the game, minimise risks, and book their place in the final, knowing full well that surprises can happen in football.
It was confirmed on Wednesday morning that Ernesto Valverde will be without his three top-scorers in this game, with Nico Williams, Inaki Williams and Oihan Sancet not in the travelling squad.
Meanwhile, United hosted an open training session later on in the afternoon where the media could get a closer look at Amorim’s side the day before this important clash.
Mazraoui decision made ahead of United vs Athletic Club
It was immediately noticed that Matthijs de Ligt was not involved in the session after he suffered an injury setback in the 4-3 defeat against Brentford. Amorim is expected to give an update on the Dutch defender in his pre-match press conference.
Christian Eriksen was also absent from the session which puts his availability for the game into question. He came off the bench against Brentford and registered an assist.
On the brighter side, Noussair Mazraoui was spotted amongst the group after receiving a well-deserved rest on the weekend. Amad was also involved in the session and full of energy. Both could be in contention to start this game.
There were several youth players at Carrington too, with Bendito Mantato and Jaydan Kamason among those in the session. Reports earlier this week explained that Amorim views the young duo as “key” to his team’s preparations for this game.
Fernandes was also in good spirits amidst the transfer speculation surrounding his name. Saudi Pro League club Al-Halil are interested in signing the club captain this summer but United have no intentions of selling their star man.
Ayden Heaven was not with the group but was spotted going through an individual session with a coach as he continues his own recovery from injury.
The United training squad for this important Europa League clash can be read in full below.
United 24-man training squad vs Athletic Club
Goalkeepers: Andre Onana, Tom Heaton, Altay Bayindir, Dermot Mee.
Defenders: Jaydan Kamason, Noussair Mazraoui, Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Tyler Fredricson, Harry Amass, Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu.
Midfielders: Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Bendito Mantato, Mason Mount, Zach Baumann, Manuel Ugarte.
Forwards: Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Amad, Chido Obi.
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