Manchester United Faces Lyon in Crucial Europa League Quarter-Final

Lyon, France – Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has announced a 23-man squad for the critical first leg of their Europa League quarter-final against Lyon on Thursday.

Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is making headlines after returning to training last week, following a two-month absence due to injury. He was seen practicing at Carrington on Wednesday morning and has traveled with the team to France for the match at Groupama Stadium.

“It’s great to have Kobbie back. He adds depth to our midfield, especially as we approach such an important fixture,” Amorim stated at a press conference.

Alongside Mainoo, defender Luke Shaw is also back in the squad after being an unused substitute in the recent Manchester derby, creating more options for Amorim as United seeks to secure a favorable result ahead of the return leg at Old Trafford next week.

United will have to navigate the match without key players including Matthijs de Ligt, who is sidelined with an injury suffered against Nottingham Forest, and young prospect Toby Collyer, who reported a knock. Despite these absences, experienced defenders Harry Maguire and Mason Mount have returned, adding strength to the squad.

Other notable mentions in the squad include goalkeepers Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton, both of whom missed the last trip to Europe—a 1-1 draw with Real Sociedad. However, they are back for this encounter.

United recently recorded a 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad at home, solidifying their position in the quarter-finals. In their path, Lyon secured their own place in this stage by overcoming FCSB.

“Lyon have always been a strong team in the European arena,” Amorim said. “We are aware of their attacking prowess and will be prepared for what they bring.”

As the kick-off approaches at 8 p.m. BST, both teams are eager to gain an upper hand. Lyon will also be without several players, including wingers Malick Fofana and Ernest Nuamah.

Among the younger players included in the travelling squad are Jaydan Kamason and Jack Moorhouse. With Amorim allowed to name 12 substitutes, there could be a chance for these young talents to step onto the European stage.

The match will be broadcast live in the UK on TNT Sports 1, marking another significant chapter in Manchester United’s journey for silverware this season. Despite their struggles in the Premier League, where they sit in 13th place, their unbeaten record in this year’s Europa League creates hope among fans.

“We know we have to be at our best to compete,” said goalkeeper Andre Onana. He added, referring to their opponents, “It’s not going to be easy, but I think we are way better than them.” This statement sparked criticism from Lyon’s former player Nemanja Matic, who called Onana’s remarks questionable given his performance history.

As fans eagerly await the match, Amorim remains focused on preparing his squad for what promises to be an exciting encounter.