Amorim’s Manchester United Face Tough Test Against Everton
The 2024/25 Premier League season has been particularly challenging for Manchester United, currently holding the 15th position. Ahead of their match against Everton on Saturday, which will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+, the Red Devils are grappling with a host of injuries and health concerns. Striking players like Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, and Christian Eriksen missed last week’s 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur due to illness, and while there’s hope for Ugarte and Eriksen’s return, coach Amorim emphasized the need to be cautious, especially with Eriksen, given his past health issues. Regulars Jonny Evans, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw are also likely to miss the trip to Goodison Park, adding to the already strained squad. Lisandro Martinez, already ruled out with an ACL injury, further compounds Amorim’s woes. Despite these setbacks, the Portuguese coach remains focused on fielding a competitive lineup and securing a positive result against the Toffees.
Everton Struggles with Forward Options
Everton’s recent run of form has been somewhat alleviated by the unexpected heroics of striker Beto. In the absence of key forwards Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Dwight McNeil, and Armando Broja, Beto has emerged as a bright spot, scoring four goals in his last four matches. However, the club’s injury list continues to grow, with Iliman Ndiaye now added due to a medial knee ligament injury sustained during their match against Liverpool. Manager Sean Moyes will have to navigate this crisis without the likes of Seamus Coleman, Youssef Chermiti, and Nathan Patterson, and Orel Mangala remains out for the season. Despite these challenges, Moyes is optimistic about Beto’s continued performance and the team’s ability to hold their ground against Manchester United.
Man City’s Concerns Ahead of Liverpool Clash
Manchester City’s Euroland debut this season has been marred by several injuries, and ahead of their crucial match against Liverpool, the club is sweating on the fitness of Erling Haaland. After starting on the bench in their midweek trip to Madrid, where they suffered a 6-3 aggregate defeat, Haaland’s return is still uncertain. Manager Pep Guardiola noted that while Haaland trained yesterday, he still has discomfort walking, particularly on stairs. Guardiola is cautious, stating, "We spoke yesterday, and this morning, and he said he didn’t feel good, didn’t feel ready." Manuel Akanji is also out for the foreseeable future, and John Stones limped off during the match at the Bernabeu, adding another injury concern to City’s roster. Rodri remains a long-term absentee as he continues to recover from an ACL injury.
Gakpo’s Return Remains a Close Call for Liverpool
Liverpool’s injury woes have been a recurring theme this season, and manager Arne Slot is weighing the risks and benefits of bringing back key players. Cody Gakpo’s participation in the upcoming match against Manchester City is a "close call" as he recovers from a short-term knock. Gakpo missed the last two matches against Wolves and Aston Villa, and Slot is unsure of his availability. "Let’s see," Slot remarked. "I hope [he’s available]. I’m not 100% sure. He hasn’t trained with the team yet. Maybe he does a bit today. I don’t know exactly. It will be a close call." Additionally, Slot confirmed that Joe Gomez is set to be sidelined for a significant period after hamstring surgery, with a potential return just before the season’s end. The manager also acknowledged the cautious reintroduction of Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who are returning from injuries, to avoid further risks.
Arsenal and West Ham Both Suffering from Injury Blows
Arsenal, under new manager Graham Potter, will face West Ham United at The Emirates on Saturday. Potter’s side is dealing with its own set of injuries, notably the absence of Lucas Paqueta, who rolled his ankle during training and is expected to be out for one to two weeks. Defender Vladimir Coufal is also doubtful due to a lingering hamstring issue, though there’s a slim chance he might be available for the Leicester game. On the Gunners’ side, Mikel Arteta remains without his injured attacking quartet—Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus. Saka and Martinelli are expected to return next month, but their prolonged absence has left Arteta with limited options up front. The clash promises to be a tough one, with both teams trying to navigate their way through these difficult injury periods.
Newcastle United’s Fitness Updates for Forest Clash
Newcastle United, under the guidance of Eddie Howe, will host third-placed Nottingham Forest on Sunday in a match that could have significant implications for their UEFA Champions League aspirations. However, the Magpies are facing their own injury concerns. Sven Botman, a key defensive player, is unlikely to be fit for the weekend, although he is making good progress in his recovery. "We don’t think he’ll be fit and available for this weekend," Howe stated. "He’s on track, there’s been no setback or anything, just not quite right." Joelinton, another important player, is also pushing hard to return but his comeback is still uncertain. Howe praised Joelinton’s effort, saying, "He’s doing really well. He’s pushing as Joe always does. We just need to make sure we introduce him at the right time." The team will have to rely on their current squad, hoping to capitalize on the high-flying Forest’s vulnerabilities.
