Erik Ten Hag: Anthony Martial Will Miss Barcelona Clash But Two Stars Return
Manchester United and Barcelona will face off for the second time in a week’s time on Thursday night as they lock horns in the UEFA Europa League knockout playoffs.
With the first leg at Camp Nou ending in a 2-2 draw, the tie is nicely poised, with everything to play for at Old Trafford tomorrow.
Heading into the game, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has provided an important update with regard to the fitness situation of some of his players.
Earlier this week, it was reported that three players, namely Anthony Martial, Antony and Harry Maguire, were doubts for the contest against Barcelona due to injuries.
But the manager has confirmed a double boost for the Red Devils as he expects both Maguire and Antony to be available for the match against the Blaugrana. However, ten Hag did confirm that Martial will be absent for the contest.
“There’s still a training session to go but I expect Harry Maguire and Antony dos Santos [to be] available,” the manager said. “Anthony Martial is not available.”
Along with Martial, Manchester United will also be without two other players, Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek, both of whom are long-term absentees for the Premier League club.
Furthermore, the Red Devils will also be able to call upon Lisandro Martinez and Marcel Sabitzer, both of whom missed the first-leg tie against Barcelona last week due to suspension.
As for the Blaugrana, they have welcomed back captain Sergio Busquets, who was unavailable for the first leg because of an ankle injury. However, Pedri, Gavi and Ousmane Dembele are not part of the squad.
