Manchester United’s Premier League preparations have been dealt a fresh injury blow as they gear up for their showdown with Sheffield United this Saturday evening, according to an official announcement from the club.
The Red Devils entered the international break with a spectacular comeback win over Brentford at Old Trafford. Facing what would have been their fifth league defeat this season, it was Scott McTominay who emerged as the savior, scoring two stoppage-time goals.
Despite the exhilarating victory, United found themselves five points adrift of the Champions League position. Their upcoming trip to South Yorkshire to take on the Blades offers a crucial opportunity to narrow the gap. In the lead-up to the match, the club has revealed that the Brazilian star, Casemiro, has been ruled out of contention.
Casemiro, a 31-year-old Brazilian, sustained an ankle injury during World Cup qualifying duty with his national team last week. He managed to play through the pain during Brazil’s match against Uruguay on Tuesday.
However, United has chosen to err on the side of caution. According to the club’s official website, he is expected to return to training early next week.
Casemiro’s absence comes as a significant injury blow to Manchester United. Although his performances at the start of the new season have been somewhat mixed, he remains a top-quality player.
As a £70 million signing, he is renowned as one of the best in the division when it comes to winning tackles and duels. United will undoubtedly miss his commanding presence when they face the Blades on the road this Saturday.
With Casemiro sidelined, the likelihood of Scott McTominay forming a partnership with Sofyan Amrabat as two holding midfielders increases. McTominay demonstrated his creative prowess against Brentford, and his heroics may earn him a starting role.
Despite United’s undeniable status as favorites to secure victory against Sheffield, especially on the road, they must remain vigilant. The last league encounter between these two teams took place in January 2021, when the Blades delivered a shocking 2-1 defeat to United at Old Trafford, with Oliver Burke securing the winner in the 74th minute.