Late Fitness Test for Onana Ahead of United’s Clash with Leicester

LEICESTER, England — Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is set to undergo a late fitness test ahead of tonight’s Premier League match against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium. Onana, who is dealing with a facial injury, remains hopeful he can play in the 7 p.m. kickoff.

If Onana is deemed unfit, United has prepared for either Dermot Mee or Elyh Harrison, both academy goalkeepers, to take his place. United’s head coach Ruben Amorim indicated that time is on Onana’s side, allowing him to travel with the team for the match.

“I still intend to start. I want to help the team,” said Onana before the match, showcasing his determination. Notably, Onana has been a consistent presence for United, having played every Premier League match since joining from Inter Milan in July 2023.

United’s usual second and third-choice goalkeepers, Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton, are unavailable due to injuries sustained in February, leaving the team with limited options should Onana be unable to play.

In addition to Onana’s situation, Amorim has made three changes to the lineup that secured a 4-1 victory against Real Sociedad earlier in the week. Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu is absent, serving the third match of a domestic suspension, which opens the door for Victor Lindelof to join Matthijs de Ligt and Ayden Heaven in the defense.

Manuel Ugarte and Christian Eriksen have also been called up for the starting XI, replacing Casemiro and Joshua Zirkzee. Mason Mount is set to make a return to the matchday squad as a substitute, offering depth after a three-month absence from injury.

“We need to be fresh for this game,” Amorim explained regarding player rotation. “It’s important to have experienced players like Mason back in the fold,” he added, emphasizing the team’s strategy as they face Leicester, who have struggled significantly this season.

Leicester City has lost 13 of their last 15 matches, and with just 25 goals overall this season, they remain on the brink of relegation. Tonight’s match presents a challenging yet crucial opportunity for the Foxes to turn their dismal fortunes around.

Onana’s recent performances have not included a clean sheet in nine matches, a worrying trend as Leicester seeks to break a goal drought that spans over five games. The Foxes haven’t scored in their last six home league matches, adding pressure to their attacking line as they prepare to face the resurgent Red Devils.

“It’s all about focusing on our own game, regardless of the opposition,” Amorim commented in anticipation of the match. “We need to keep up the momentum from last week and continue performing well.”

As United aims to extend its winning streak against Leicester, the return of injured key players, like Harry Maguire and Mount, may play a pivotal role as they proceed into the international break.

Tonight’s clash will not only be about points but a test of character for both teams as they navigate through the crucial stage of the season.