Two Man United players could miss rest of the season after Sevilla draw
Marcel Sabitzer celebrates scoring the first goal for Man United against Sevilla Reuters/Lee Smith.
Man United failed to hold on to a two-goal lead at home against struggling Sevilla in the first leg of the Europa League quarter-finals. But the worst thing to come out of the night was injuries to Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez that might derail their season.
Erik ten Hag’s first-choice centre-back pairing left the pitch at different intervals.
Varane went off at half-time with the scoreline reading 2-0. His replacement Harry Maguire slotted seamlessly alongside Martinez, but a switch-off from Tyrell Malacia in the 84th minute allowed Jesus Navas to put the ball past David de Gea via a deflection off the left-back.
Minutes later, the Argentina international was stretchered off, leaving United to defend with 10 men in stoppage time. Another moment of luck and chaos followed, and Sevilla’s camp cheered, as Youssef En-Nesyri’s effort bounced off Maguire’s head and into the back of the net.
Two Man United players could miss rest of the season
Martinez has been ruled out for the remainder of the season. Further, as per The Athletic, there are concerns Varane’s campaign could also be over. However, United have stated that the Frenchman is expected to be out for a few weeks.
Ahead of United’s away fixture at Nottingham Forest, Ten Hag suggested Luke Shaw could be available. But if the Englishman isn’t ready, Maguire will likely be partnered with Victor Lindelof.
Ten Hag will face the ultimate test against Brighton and Hove Albion in the FA Cup, with Maguire also suspended for the Wembley outing after the second leg. Bruno Fernandes, meanwhile, is suspended for the Seville trip.
The Dutchman manager will have to get bold and creative with his team selections, or else in less than 10 days, Man United could be out of two cup competitions.