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Injury concern emerges as Manchester United star could miss Europa League final
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Manchester United star Leny Yoro could miss out on the Europa League final

Manchester United are heading into the Europa League final against Tottenham with more than just recent wounds; they’re now dealing with a potential defensive crisis. The 2-0 defeat to West Ham United at Old Trafford not only deepened the cracks in a fragile squad but also delivered a blow that could significantly alter Ruben Amorim’s plans.

Leny Yoro’s unexpected injury in the second half sent shockwaves through the United camp. What initially appeared to be a minor foot problem has now raised serious concerns about his availability for the final. Amorim wasted no time in replacing the French centre-back with Harry Maguire, but the change only highlighted how crucial Yoro has been in recent weeks. In a defence that has often looked disjointed and vulnerable, the 19-year-old had been a rare source of stability.

According to the BBC, former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley added to the air of uncertainty, suggesting that Yoro’s foot issue could keep him out of the crucial clash. The medical team is yet to provide an official diagnosis, but the early indications are far from encouraging. With just days to go before the final, United are left to assess their defensive options in a squad already stretched thin.

Yoro’s potential absence couldn’t come at a worse time. United’s backline has struggled to cut passing lanes and deal with pressure throughout the season, and the Frenchman’s composure and positional awareness were crucial in holding things together. With Tottenham’s dynamic attack looming, a backline without Yoro could face a stern test.

“It looks like Lenny Yoro has some sort of problem with his foot. It is not what Manchester United fans will want so see, he’s been in a good vein of form of late. Let’s hope it’s not too serious.”

Despite his youth, Leny Yoro has exhibited traits that belie his age. The French centre-back has quickly become a key component of Ruben Amorim’s defensive structure, displaying a level of maturity and composure that is rare in such a young player. He reads the game exceptionally well, closing down spaces that others fail to anticipate, and his timing in duels is precise without being reckless. Unlike many defenders his age, Yoro doesn’t seek the spotlight with flashy tackles or unnecessary risks. Instead, he performs his role with a calm assurance, a quality that has brought a measure of stability to a backline that has often looked on the verge of collapse.

Under pressure, Yoro remains composed, a characteristic that has been crucial in matches where United’s defensive shape has threatened to unravel. His ability to maintain focus, anticipate danger, and make timely interventions has given Amorim a reliable option at the heart of the defence, even amid the tactical chaos surrounding the team.

Losing Yoro ahead of the Europa League final would not just be a setback; it would be a blow to the very structure Amorim has tried to build. His early maturity has been vital, particularly in moments when the team seemed to be falling apart. Without him, United could find themselves scrambling for solutions in a game where every defensive lapse could prove costly.

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In Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system, Leny Yoro has been a vital cog, occupying the right-hand side of the three-man defence. From that position, he not only provided balance but also acted as a crucial link between the backline and the wing-back. Yoro’s presence allowed United to maintain a compact defensive block, protecting the flanks while covering for potential lapses by the wing-back.

If Yoro’s injury is as serious as feared, Amorim faces a tactical dilemma. Replacing him isn’t just about plugging a gap, it requires rethinking the entire defensive structure. The Frenchman’s absence means United will lose defensive transition speed and one-on-one solidity, two qualities that have been pivotal against high-pressing teams.

Amorim could opt for Harry Maguire to slot in, but Maguire’s lack of pace and tendency to struggle in wide areas may leave United exposed against Tottenham’s fluid attack. Alternatively, a switch to a flat back four could provide additional cover, but it would mean sacrificing the balance that the 3-4-3 setup offers. one-on-one security. The lack of depth in that area raises concerns, and Amorim doesn’t have many reliable pieces to fill such a specific gap. If they are to resist a Tottenham side on the rise, they will need to be pragmatic and solid. Planning without Yoro is not ideal, but it is no longer a matter of preference. Now it’s survival. Will Amorim manage to plug that gap without paying the price?

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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