Manchester United manager confirms defender out for up to 8 weeks with knee injury

Manchester United are entering a crucial stretch of the season among multiple competitions, with squad depth already under scrutiny in recent weeks.

Injuries have been a recurring theme at Old Trafford, particularly as the club balances domestic and European ambitions.

We have already reported on defensive concerns in recent months – from Matthijs de Ligt’s extended layoff impacting United’s run-in, to midfield reshuffles amid Casemiro’s announced departure at the end of the campaign.

Availability continues to shape selection decisions across the club.

Now, another setback has been confirmed.

Speaking ahead of United’s European fixture this week, the manager revealed that one defender will be side lined for an extended period following a knee issue picked up in the previous leg.

After further assessment, it has been determined that Anna Sandberg suffered damage around her meniscus and will require rehabilitation before returning.

The manager Marc Skinner explained:

“It was more a little bit in the knee, so she made an action, there’s a little bit of a tidy up around her meniscus. She will be around four, to six to eight weeks, best is four, middle is six, worst case is eight.”

He added:

“I think [if it was eight weeks she would be back] probably three or four games before the end of the season. So yeah she’d be with us for the last part of the season, but we’re hopeful we can get it to six.

There won’t be any risk with her, we won’t take any risk, she’s a young player so we’ll make sure she’s rehabbed effectively.”

The injury represents a blow during an important period of the campaign, though there remains optimism she can feature again before the season concludes.

Manchester United’s women team will now need to manage their defensive options carefully in the coming weeks.