Erik Ten Hag faces the challenge of assembling a makeshift defense for Manchester United’s Community Shield match against Manchester City on Saturday, as injuries continue to plague his squad. The Red Devils may be missing key players like Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka for this season-opening fixture at Wembley, while Copa America winner Lisandro Martinez has only just rejoined the team.
Ten Hag, whose squad was impacted by injuries last season, mentioned that Maguire’s absence from the recent friendly against Liverpool was precautionary, but his availability for Saturday remains uncertain. Lindelof, Wan-Bissaka, and Shaw are also doubtful and will be assessed in training on Friday.
Martinez, Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo, and Facundo Pellistri have returned to training at Carrington after extended breaks, and their fitness will be evaluated individually before deciding their roles in the match. Ten Hag indicated that Martinez could be involved, depending on his condition.
New signing Leny Yoro, a £60 million defender, is recovering from foot surgery, while striker Rasmus Hojlund is sidelined with a long-term hamstring injury. United recently signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £36.5 million and are looking to make further additions before the transfer deadline on August 30, with players like Youssouf Fofana, Sander Berge, and Ivan Toney linked to Old Trafford.
Ten Hag noted that while the transfer market has been relatively quiet, United has made two key signings and will continue to evaluate market options. He emphasized the need for patience, promising updates when appropriate.
As United aims to claim the Community Shield for a record 22nd time, Ten Hag expressed the team’s determination to win, but also acknowledged the importance of not taking unnecessary risks during this preseason match.