Manchester United faced continued pre-season injury challenges as Aaron Wan‑Bissaka, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans were all forced to exit during their 3-0 friendly loss to Liverpool in South Carolina.
Erik ten Hag has encountered numerous setbacks during the club’s pre-season tour in the US, including the loss of new signing Leny Yoro for three months due to a foot injury, while striker Rasmus Højlund suffered a hamstring strain in the match against Arsenal.
United also faced difficulties during their victory against Real Betis as Marcus Rashford and Antony were substituted due to injuries. Both managed to participate to some extent in the loss against Liverpool, but the defensive trio of Wan-Bissaka, Lindelöf, and Evans were all unable to finish the match.
Lindelöf was substituted at half-time for safety reasons, while Evans left the game due to illness. Wan‑Bissaka, who is rumored to have interest from West Ham, collapsed in the 80th minute and received treatment on the field before being replaced by James Scanlon; additionally, 21-year-old Will Fish was unable to continue after a challenge with Liverpool forward Harvey Blair. Harry Maguire was omitted from the lineup against Liverpool as a precaution.
Ten Hag spoke to MUTV, stating: “We need to assess what has occurred. Regarding Will Fish, the evaluation shows it’s an impact injury. We also had to substitute Jonny Evans at half-time due to illness. Victor Lindelöf’s substitution was precautionary. So yes, we have some injuries, but we need to determine the severity.
“Pre-season is typically challenging. Harry Maguire was left out as a precaution, and while we have sustained injuries, that’s part of club football. Our focus remains on developing the team and making significant progress.”
Arne Slot mentioned that his team still has areas to improve on despite the 3-0 victory. The new Liverpool manager, who took over from Jürgen Klopp in May, also guided the team to wins against Arsenal and Real Betis. Liverpool’s next challenge is against Sevilla at Anfield before they begin their Premier League campaign against the newly promoted Ipswich Town on August 17.
When asked about his satisfaction with the team’s performance thus far, the Dutchman replied: “Yes, I am pleased, but not with every performance. We’re thrilled with the results and scored some excellent goals … it’s been a very positive tour. However, I feel we lacked control during the game and conceded too many chances. United deserved better than a 3-0 defeat, but our quality allowed us to capitalize on our scoring opportunities.”
“We will evaluate how the players returning from their holidays fit into the team. We need to work diligently over the next two weeks to ensure we are well-prepared.”
In other news from the US, Barcelona secured a 2-1 victory against Real Madrid in an engaging clásico held in New Jersey.
After a weather delay of over an hour due to lightning, Pau Víctor netted two goals, giving Hansi Flick’s side a 2-0 lead before Nico Paz managed to score one back for Madrid.
