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Manchester United host Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday
Manchester United are putting the final touches on their preparations for Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Arsenal. Ruben Amorim has a number of injury problems to contend with as the Gunners make the trip to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils have a second leg against Real Sociedad to factor into their plans for the coming week as they look to advance in the Europa League after drawing 1-1 in their first leg on Thursday night. The Europa League is the club’s only realistic chance of qualifying for European football next season with the Red Devils sat in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
One player who could feature again this season despite an initial assessment of a return next campaign is Amad Diallo. The forward, along with defender Lisandro Martinez, was not due to return until the 2025/26 campaign.
Amorim’s positive Diallo update
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s clash with Arsenal, United boss Amorim said: “Even Amad, we’ll see in the end of the last month. I don’t want to say anything to you but I have the hope to have Amad before, we’ll see. Lisandro is out, Kobbie [Mainoo] can return. The rest, my worry is we have to be careful. Manu [Ugarte] will return, I think Luke Shaw and Mason Mount can return also. We’ll see.”
Amad is currently out with an ankle injury and said back in mid-February: "Extremely disappointed to be writing this message in such a crucial time of the season. Unfortunately, I will be out for some time with an injury.”
However, there is now renewed hope the player could play again before the end of the campaign. The youngster was quickly become one of United’s key stars before injury set back his progress.
Amorim’s importance and potential return date
Only Bruno Fernandes has scored more goals for United this season than Amad. The 22-year-old has netted nine times in all competitions, while Fernandes has scored 11 times. Three of those goals from the Red Devils captain have been from the penalty spot while Amad has not taken a spot-kick this campaign.
United travel to Chelsea on May 18, subject to any broadcast rescheduling, for their final away game before hosting Aston Villa on the last day of the season on May 25. Amad is also registered for the Europa League, meaning he is free to play if he returns to fitness.
The 22-year-old has scored against both Manchester City and Liverpool this season, as Amorim oversaw a win at the Etihad Stadium and a draw at Anfield.
In other news, United have reportedly 'made contact' with a Brazilian midfielder as Arsenal and Newcastle Utd targets are also being eyed.