Could Manchester United's Boost from Amad and De Ligt Change the Europa League Semi-Final?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Exciting news for Manchester United fans as Amad and De Ligt return ahead of a crucial Europa League semi-final. Will their presence influence the outcome against Athletic Club? Join us as we delve into the team’s preparations and what it means for their quest for European glory.
Key Takeaways
- Amad returns to training after an ankle injury.
- De Ligt also back in action, missing crucial games.
- United's squad announcement is expected on Wednesday.
- Luke Shaw's full 90 minutes marks a significant return.
- Chido Obi is ineligible for the upcoming match.
Manchester, April 30 (NationPress) Manchester United has been granted significant advantages ahead of their Europa League semi-final first leg against Athletic Club on Thursday. As part of the usual protocol before a European match, Ruben Amorim's squad trained under the spotlight at Carrington on Wednesday morning before their departure to Bilbao later in the day.
Amad was back with the team following an ankle injury sustained in February, and Matthijs de Ligt was also present.
De Ligt has not played since the defeat against Nottingham Forest on April 1, missing both quarterfinal matches against Lyon. Similarly, Amad was unavailable for the two fixtures against the French team, as well as the earlier ties against Real Sociedad.
It remains uncertain whether these returning players will accompany the team to Spain and participate at San Mames. The club is expected to reveal the traveling squad later on Wednesday.
Amorim could provide more details during the pre-match press conference alongside Manuel Ugarte at the Basques’ stadium.
Toby Collyer was observed conducting individual training with a coach prior to the main squad's appearance of 28 players.
Luke Shaw managed to complete the full 90 minutes at the Vitality Stadium—a first for him in over a year. Chido Obi joined the training session on Wednesday but is ineligible for the game in Bilbao.
Lisandro Martinez and Joshua Zirkzee are both sidelined for the season, while Diogo Dalot was absent from Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Bournemouth due to a calf injury.
Manchester United's training squad:
Goalkeepers: Bayindir, Harrison, Heaton, Mee, Onana.
Defenders: Amass, De Ligt, Dorgu, Evans, Fredricson, Kamason, Lindelof, Maguire, Mantato, Mazraoui, Shaw, Yoro.
Midfielders: Casemiro, Eriksen, Fernandes, Kone, Mainoo, Mount, Ugarte.
Forwards: Amad, Garnacho, Hojlund, Obi.
Point of View
NationPress recognizes the vital impact of player health on a team's performance. Manchester United's return of Amad and De Ligt is a promising sign for their Europa League ambitions, but the effectiveness of these players will ultimately be tested on the pitch. Fans should remain optimistic but realistic as the match approaches.
NationPress
03/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries have Amad and De Ligt faced?
Amad suffered an ankle injury in February, while Matthijs de Ligt has been out since early April due to an unspecified issue.
When is Manchester United's next match?
Manchester United will play against Athletic Club in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final on Thursday.
