Manchester United have confirmed that Harry Maguire will miss the trip to Bayern Munich through injury, joining the already extensive list of players on the sidelines.
United’s former captain hasn’t seen much playing time this season as he continues to operate on the fringes of the first team, but his absence is yet another blow for Erik ten Hag as he attempts to navigate a difficult start to 2023-24.
The Red Devils have lost three of their first five Premier League games – their worst start since 2014 and the days of Louis van Gaal – and were comprehensively outplayed at Old Trafford against bogey team Brighton on Saturday, who have now won the club’s last four top-flight meetings after their 3-1 win.
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Speaking at a press conference at the Allianz Arena, Ten Hag was asked about the issues that have left the Reds without a number of key names for the tough task against Group A’s top seeds. He replied: “Yes, of course, it is a concern. That is why we knew that before, when we constructed the squad with that, so we can deal with it. The squad can deal with it.”
One bit of good news for United is that Mason Mount and Raphael Varane are back in training, but neither player will head to Munich as the club prepare to take on Bayern Munich in their first group-stage game. Kobbie Mainoo was also able to participate in some light running exercises, while deadline day loan Sofyan Amrabat continued to work on his individual programme.
TRAVELLING SQUAD FOR BAYERN (A)
Goalkeepers: Altay Bayindir, Tom Heaton, Andre Onana, Radek Vitek.
Defenders: Victor Lindelof, Lisandro Martinez, Sergio Reguilon, Diogo Dalot, Jonny Evans.
Midfielders: Bruno Fernandes, Christian Eriksen, Casemiro, Facundo Pellistri, Scott McTominay, Dan Gore, Hannibal.
Forwards: Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Rasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho, Omari Forson.