Manchester United’s Europa League hopes hinge on a patched-up defence after Leny Yoro was ruled out of Thursday’s decisive second-leg clash against Real Sociedad. The 19-year-old center-back suffered a foot injury during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal and his return remains unknown. After the game, Amorim said: “Leny, he has something in his foot. We’ll see if he’s available on Thursday.”
Yoro’s exit at halftime against Arsenal paved the way for 18-year-old Ayden Heaven’s Premier League debut. Manager Ruben Amorim confirmed the setback post-match about Yoro but reports from training indicated Yoro’s absence is certain, leaving United’s backline in disarray.
Heaven, who joined from Arsenal’s academy in January, now faces an even stiffer test. Thrust into a high stakes European tie, the teenager’s composure impressed Amorim: “Ayden is so relaxed, he seems so relaxed that sometimes he is too relaxed! But I think we have a player there.” With Harry Maguire also doubtful, Amorim must choose between Heaven and Victor Lindelof to partner Matthijs de Ligt in a back three. Mazraoui is expected to take the third spot.
One glimmer of hope comes in midfield. Manuel Ugarte, sidelined since the first leg, could return after Amorim hinted: “Maybe Ugarte [can come back]. I don’t know. We’ll see.” The Uruguayan’s resolve would bolster a midfield overrun in recent weeks, but his fitness remains a gamble.
Injury Crisis
United’s treatment room tells a grim story. Alongside Yoro and Maguire, key absences include Amad Diallo who had an Ankle ligament injury, though Amorim hasn’t ruled out a late-season return: “I have the hope to have Amad before the end of the season. Both Kobbie Mainoo & Luke Shaw could feature again this term, but timelines are vague while Lisandro Martínez is out until next season after an ACL surgery. Backup goalkeepers Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton remain sidelined, while Mason Mount and Jonny Evans are also out. Patrick Dorgu, serving a domestic ban, will be available for the Europa clash.
Amorim’s 3-4-3 system relies on defensive stability, but with Yoro out and Maguire shaky, United’s reshuffled backline must avoid the lapses that cost them at times throughout the season. Heaven’s debut showcased promise, but relying on an 18-year-old in a European knockout tie is a gamble, which seemingly Amorim is willing to take. Lindelof’s experience might edge him the nod, but fans craving boldness could see Heaven thrown into the deep end.
Thursday’s match is a season-definer. A win propels United into the quarter-finals, anything less ends their last shot at silverware. After a courageous display against Arsenal, morale will be up against a tough Real Sociedad side. As Amorim scrambles to fill the gaps, Heaven’s introduction could become a breakout moment, or a harsh lesson in United’s relentless turbulence.