Manchester United are gearing up to face FC Porto in Portugal this week for the second round of fixtures in the Europa League.
Manager Erik ten Hag finds himself under intensifying scrutiny following a 3-0 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur, making this match pivotal for both his future and the team’s momentum.
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The Red Devils have stumbled out of the gates this season, and the pressure is mounting.
Ten Hag’s position could be on the line over the next two games, especially after he narrowly retained his role during the summer, thanks in large part to an FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.
In their Europa League opener, United managed only a draw at home against FC Twente.
While they are slight favorites heading into the clash with Porto, confidence within the squad is wavering due to recent lackluster performances.
Manchester United Team News vs FC Porto
On Wednesday, Manchester United released their traveling squad list, notably including young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo.
Mainoo has recovered from an injury scare he suffered during the loss to Tottenham.
He was substituted before halftime in Sunday’s disheartening defeat at Old Trafford, heading straight down the tunnel shortly after Bruno Fernandes received a straight red card.
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Footage appeared to capture the 19-year-old informing Johnny Evans that he had pulled his hamstring, sparking significant fears about his fitness ahead of these crucial fixtures.
Ten Hag admitted there were “concerns” for Mainoo after he was forced off, but seeing the England international back in training provides a much-needed boost for the embattled manager.
Mainoo has been a near-constant presence in United’s midfield this season, completing the full 90 minutes in four of the team’s five league games before his early exit against Spurs.
Mason Mount came on to replace him but was himself forced off late in the match after sustaining a nasty cut from a clash of heads with Radu Dragusin.
The former Chelsea midfielder required stitches and has not made the trip to Portugal.
In more positive news, Harry Maguire has returned to training after missing the Tottenham game due to injury and is available for selection tonight.
However, United will remain without left-backs Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, who are still sidelined.
Predicted Manchester United XI to Face FC Porto
- Goalkeeper: Onana
- Defenders: Mazraoui, De Ligt, Martinez, Dalot
- Midfielders: Mainoo, Ugarte, Amad
- Forwards: Fernandes, Rashford, Hojlund
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