Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is grappling with a significant attacking crisis as his team prepares to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park this afternoon. The Reds will be without key striker Matheus Cunha, compounding their existing injury woes.
United's Mounting Injury Concerns
Matheus Cunha will play no part in today's Premier League fixture following a bizarre training ground accident that resulted in a head injury. The Brazilian international, who was also absent for Monday's dismal defeat to 10-man Everton, missed a scheduled public appearance switching on Christmas lights in Altrincham due to the incident.
His absence is particularly felt given that first-choice forward Benjamin Sesko remains sidelined until mid-December with a knee injury. In a further blow, Amorim suggested on Friday that Sesko's recovery may take longer than initially anticipated.
The defensive department also suffers with Harry Maguire ruled out due to a hamstring injury sustained against Tottenham before the international break. The former captain has not trained since picking up the knock.
Amorim's Limited Attacking Options
With his primary striking options unavailable, Amorim faces difficult selection decisions. Joshua Zirkzee started his first game of the season against Everton but failed to impress, with United's attack looking disjointed and lacking cutting edge.
The Portuguese manager is now considering deploying Mason Mount in a false nine role, a position he has used the England international in previously. This tactical shift could potentially open up space in midfield for Kobbie Mainoo, who is still waiting for his first league start this season.
Eighteen-year-old Chido Obi, who made eight senior appearances last season, represents another option, though Mount is expected to be preferred for the crucial away fixture.
Glimmers of Hope and Future Concerns
There is some positive news for United fans as Lisandro Martinez is available again after recovering from his ACL injury. The Argentine defender was among the substitutes on Monday night and could feature against Palace.
Looking ahead, United face further disruption with Amad and top scorer Bryan Mbeumo set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations next month. The home game against Bournemouth on 15 December is likely to be their final appearance before leaving Manchester.
This means Amorim could be without his preferred front three of Cunha, Mbeumo, and Sesko until February, presenting a significant challenge during the busy festive period.
Palace's Defensive Strength
Crystal Palace approach the match following a Europa Conference League defeat away to Strasbourg on Thursday night. Despite the quick turnaround, Oliver Glasner's side boast the second-best defensive record in the Premier League this season, trailing only Arsenal.
The key midfield battle is expected to feature Adam Wharton against United's Casemiro. Wharton's ability to dictate play from deep positions has attracted attention from several clubs, including Manchester United, who are reportedly considering a summer move for the England international.
The match kicks off at 12pm today (Sunday 30 November) and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with streaming available through the Discovery+ app.
