Manchester United have been dealt a defensive setback ahead of their Premier League encounter with West Ham United, with key centre-back Matthijs de Ligt ruled out due to injury.
Team News and Tactical Changes
The Dutch international's absence forced manager Ruben Amorim into a reshuffle for the game at Old Trafford on Wednesday, December 4, 2025. In total, Amorim made three alterations to the side that secured a 2-1 victory away at Crystal Palace the previous Sunday.
In defence, young talent Ayden Heaven was handed his first Premier League start of the season, coming in directly for the injured De Ligt. Furthermore, Noussair Mazraoui replaced Leny Yoro in the back line, with the latter dropping to the substitutes' bench.
Further up the pitch, there was a welcome return for striker Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian was back in the starting eleven after missing the last two matches because of a head injury. His inclusion saw Mason Mount make way.
Amorim's Pre-Match Comments on De Ligt and Yoro
Speaking to Sky Sports just before kick-off, Ruben Amorim sought to allay fears over De Ligt's condition, describing the issue as minor. "It's a small thing," the United boss stated. "I expect to have him in the next game. The rest of the guys are ready."
Amorim also explained his tactical decision to omit Leny Yoro following his performance in the win at Selhurst Park. "As a manager, we need to think about everything," he said. "I spoke to Leny, not about leaving him out but about the message. He is so disappointed but it is a tactical issue. It is a clear option and a tactical option. Today we need to win, no matter what."
Confirmed Line-Ups for Old Trafford Clash
The full team sheets for the midweek fixture were as follows:
Manchester United: Lammens; Mazraoui, Heaven, Shaw; Amad, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Cunha; Zirkzee.
Substitutes: Bayindir, Dorgu, Malacia, Martinez, Yoro, Mainoo, Mount, Ugarte, Lacey.
West Ham United: Areola; Wan Bissaka, Todibo, Mavropanos, Diouf; Potts, Magassa; Bowen, Fernandes, Soucek; Wilson.
Substitutes: Hermansen, Walker-Peters, Kilman, Rodriguez, Irving, Earthy, Marshall, Kante, Mayers.
The absence of De Ligt presents a significant test for United's defensive resources as they aim to build on their recent victory and secure another crucial three points in the Premier League campaign.
