Manchester United may face a defensive crisis for the Community Shield against Manchester City, with six defenders potentially unavailable. New signing Leny Yoro has been sidelined for three months due to a metatarsal fracture, and fellow centre-back Will Fish suffered ligament damage in a recent 3-0 friendly defeat to Liverpool. Manager Erik ten Hag has now indicated that four additional defenders could also miss the season’s opening game at Wembley on Saturday.
Harry Maguire was absent from the Liverpool match as a precaution, and Victor Lindelof was substituted at half-time for similar reasons. Both players remain doubtful for the upcoming fixture. Additionally, full-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw did not participate in Wednesday’s training session, and Ten Hag confirmed that their availability is uncertain. “We need to assess them tomorrow to see if they’re fit to play,” said the United manager.
Jonny Evans, who recovered from an illness last week, has resumed training at Carrington, while Lisandro Martinez has returned after his involvement in the Copa America. This could leave Martinez and Evans as the only experienced centre-backs available, with young defender Rhys Bennett potentially being called upon as well. Ten Hag hinted that some players returning from international duty might be involved against City, depending on their individual fitness levels.
With a focus on securing the trophy but avoiding unnecessary risks, Ten Hag emphasized that the team will be competitive while managing player fitness carefully. The possible absence of Shaw and Tyrell Malacia could open the door for 17-year-old Harry Amass to make his debut, having started all three of United’s pre-season tour games.
