Six Manchester United Stars Could Return From Injury Before FA Cup Final

Manchester United could have as many as six players back from injury before facing Manchester City in the FA Cup final. In addition to Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes, four defenders are also pushing for late returns.

Manchester United Handed Massive Squad Boost Ahead of FA Cup Final

Ten Hag’s Late Salvation?

Manchester United’s disappointing run of results in recent weeks have cast serious doubts over Erik Ten Hag’s future at the club. The Red Devils have claimed only one victory in their last eight league games, conceding 19 goals.

However, the Dutchman still appears to have the backing of a significant portion of the fanbase, as well as the likes of Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane, who believe the club shouldn’t hire a new coach this summer.

Leading United to the FA Cup by winning a derby against Manchester City could significantly increase Ten Hag’s chances of keeping his job ahead of the next season. With the Red Devils preparing for a major squad overhaul this summer, the former Ajax manager might be given the chance to get his side back on track in the next campaign.

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Speaking ahead of Manchester United’s mid-week match against Newcastle, Ten Hag confirmed Lisandro Martinez is ready to return to the matchday squad after completing several training sessions with the team.

Bruno Fernandes, Willy Kimbwala, and Marcus Rashford are not guaranteed to come back against Newcastle. However, all three players are expected to return by the time United travel to Wembley for the FA Cup final.

Raphael Varane, who is set to leave Old Trafford as a free agent this summer, has stayed out of action since early April. Asked whether the Frenchman has played his last game for the club, Ten Hag added: “We plan [for] him definitely for the last games. Not tomorrow, but we hope for Sunday and then, of course, for the last game [The FA Cup final].”

Harry Maguire is another defender pushing to come back for the final game of the season. The England international has spent the last two weeks on the sidelines after picking up a muscle injury, but reports have suggested he could be available for the match against Man City.