July 31 – Manchester United blockbuster signing Leny Yoro has been spotted wearing a protective boot and using crutches at the club’s UCLA training base in California, as Manchester United’s season takes a huge hit before it has even taken off.
Less than two weeks after Erik Ten Hag made him one of the most expensive teenage signings of all time, Yoro looks set for a nightmare start to his United career as the club’s defender curse continues.
The 18-year-old was forced off during the first half of Saturday’s pre-season defeat by Arsenal at the SoFi stadium in Los Angeles.
The 2005-born defender, who only completed his €62 million move to United from Lille on July 18, could barely put any weight on his foot as he left the pitch and was filmed getting on the team bus with the protective boot on his left foot, sparking fears of an extended absence.
Young striker Rasmus Hojlund also limped off against Arsenal with an apparent hamstring complaint – manager Erik ten Hag has not spoken to external media since the setbacks. Hojlund had looked back to his best for his 11-minute cameo, scoring the opener.
With Lisandro Martinez still not back in training after his stint with Argentina in the Copa America, ten Hag may have to choose between Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof for central defence.
Meanwhile, United have been looking to secure a second centre-back this summer. They have held discussions with Bayern Munich about Matthijs de Ligt and had an improved £50 million bid for Jarrad Branthwaite turned down by Everton.
Armed with an injury list that continues to grow, Manchester United turn their attention to their next opponent, Real Betis, on Wednesday at the Snapdragon Stadium.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1726922935labto1726922935ofdlr1726922935owedi1726922935sni@g1726922935niwe.1726922935yrrah1726922935