Manchester United are preparing for a defining week in their turbulent 2024/25 campaign.
With six Premier League games remaining, United are languishing in 14th, a far cry from the top-four race they hoped to be part of.
Focus has now turned entirely to the Europa League, where Ruben Amorim’s men have one foot in the semi-finals after a dramatic 2-2 draw away to Lyon in the first leg.
Joshua Zirkzee thought he had secured a late win in France, only for Andre Onana’s injury-time error to gift Rayan Cherki a crucial equaliser.
While Ruben Amorim eyes silverware to salvage the season, he must now navigate a midfield dilemma that could severely impact his plans for the semi-finals.
Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro are both on the verge of suspension heading into Thursday’s decisive second leg at Old Trafford.
The midfield pair are just one yellow card away from missing the semi-final first leg, should United advance past Lyon.
Manuel Ugarte was booked last week after clashing with Lyon striker Georges Mikautadze, his second caution in this year’s competition.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
His first came during the group-stage win over PAOK, and a third yellow on Thursday would see him automatically suspended.
Casemiro finds himself in the exact same situation, having picked up yellow cards in victories over PAOK and Bodo/Glimt earlier in the tournament.
According to UEFA rules, any player who accumulates three yellow cards before the semi-finals receives a one-match ban.
However, all bookings are wiped clean after the quarter-final stage, meaning both players will be in the clear if they survive Thursday unscathed.
That adds further pressure on Amorim to manage both players carefully, particularly with Lyon expected to play on the front foot.
Matthijs de Ligt is another who has picked up two bookings, but his involvement is in doubt due to a recent injury absence.
Ruben Amorim is likely to provide an update on the Dutchman during Wednesday’s press conference at Carrington.
Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes has already served a suspension after receiving three yellows earlier in the tournament.
He will be available for selection, but the spotlight now turns to Casemiro and Ugarte as United walk the disciplinary tightrope.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE CENTRE DEVILS WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
