Manchester United Injury Woes Deepen: Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven Face Crucial Tests Ahead of Europa League Final

A growing defensive injury crisis threatens to derrail Manchester United’s hopes of winning the Premier League and the forthcoming Europa League final as they reach the pivotal moments of their season under Ruben Amorim. On the scoreboard, the defeat to West Ham was concerning enough, but what worried United supporters the most was seeing Leny Yoro hobble out.

Amorim, who took over earlier this season and has already given this changing team a tactical identity, is currently dealing with the age-old issue that no manager likes: important positions are unfilled. Furthermore, the individual profiles of the absent players—many of whom are essential to Amorim’s strategy of building from the back—are just as important as the numbers.

Fresh Concerns over Leny Yoro

Leny Yoro’s latest injury could not have come at a worse time. During United’s 1-0 loss to West Ham in the second half, the highly regarded Frenchman, who has shown potential since joining Old Trafford, hobbled out. Although the severity is yet unknown, the incident—which was noteworthy for taking place off the ball—suggested a muscular issue.

Ruben Amorim offered some reassurance post-match, stating:

“We will assess the player, but I think it is a small thing. We hope it’s nothing serious.”

Fans have, however, heard similar statements in the past, only to witness endless timelines. United’s medical staff is in a race against time as the Europa League final approaches in less than two weeks. Yoro’s availability is still uncertain, and there is no set date for his return.

Potential return date: Unknown

Matthijs de Ligt’s Knock a Calculated Risk?

Matthijs de Ligt’s recent injury against Brentford, which prevented him from playing against West Ham, is another reason for concern. Amorim was eager to downplay the severity of the problem, but there needs to be a careful balance struck between allowing him to recover gradually and making sure he is fully ready for the May 16 Chelsea encounter.

“It is not a big issue, so that is a good thing. But he cannot play tomorrow and on Sunday. But then we will check day-by-day and see.”

Given his importance and experience, Amorim may choose to err on the side of caution—particularly with silverware in sight.

Potential return date: Friday 16 May, vs Chelsea (A)

Ayden Heaven Edging Closer to Return

Since moving from Arsenal to Manchester United, Ayden Heaven has had a period of inactivity. His progress has been continuously hindered by injuries following a stellar debut. Despite being the final member of the matchday squad against Newcastle, he did not play and has been out since.

Fortunately, he has resumed individual training, which is an essential step on the road to full recovery. His availability for the forthcoming trip to Chelsea is a source of quiet excitement within the club.

Potential return date: Friday 16 May, vs Chelsea (A)

Broader Injury Picture Offers Little Comfort

Diogo Dalot’s calf injury is likely to keep him out for the remainder of the campaign. Amorim was blunt in his assessment:

“We don’t know how long he’s going to be out. But he’s out for these next games.”

After starting individual work again, Toby Collyer is a little further along in his recovery and could make a comeback on May 21 against Tottenham. Lisandro Martínez and Joshua Zirkzee, meanwhile, have been away for a long time. Zirkzee will not play until the next season due to a hamstring injury, and Martínez is also on the same path following ACL surgery.

“He’s not going to play more this season. Let’s prepare him for the next one,” said Amorim of Zirkzee.

Final thoughts

Although injuries are inevitable during any season, Manchester United’s present problem could not be more disruptive in terms of timing and spatial grouping. Ruben Amorim must use tactical creativity and squad depth to get through a challenging stretch with important players like Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt now under scrutiny and Ayden Heaven still getting back into rhythm. The health of his backline and the outcome of United’s season will be decided during the next ten days.