Manchester United is facing a full-back crisis as they prepare for the new season. Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, and Tyrell Malacia have not traveled with the team to Los Angeles for their pre-season tour. Shaw and Dalot are still on extended breaks after participating in the Euros, while Malacia is still working his way back to full fitness. This leaves United without recognized backup options on either side, especially with the club actively trying to sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is in the final year of his contract.
There are concerns over Shaw’s long-term fitness, as he played in the latter stages of the Euros for England, marking his first taste of football since February. Dalot, on the other hand, was one of the club’s most consistent performers last season and is expected to begin the season as the right-back, with Shaw on the left. However, without any recognized backup options, United’s full-back situation is causing panic within the club.
To address this crisis, manager Erik ten Hag has been forced to play teenager Sam Murray at left-back in the team’s pre-season games against Rosenberg and Rangers. Murray will also feature in the upcoming games in Los Angeles. However, he is yet to make his full professional debut for Manchester United, putting added pressure on the young player.
In an attempt to find a solution, United has been looking at potential signings. One option is Bayern Munich right-back Noussair Mazraoui, who would cost around £20 million. The club is also actively trying to sell Wan-Bissaka, with interest from both West Ham and Galatasaray in Turkey.
The full-back crisis extends beyond the current situation, as there are ongoing concerns over Malacia’s fitness. He has not played for the club since May 2023 and has undergone two knee operations. His recovery progress remains uncertain.
This dilemma highlights the importance of having depth and quality in the full-back positions. With United’s current situation, it is clear that they need to address this issue before the start of the season to ensure they have reliable options on both the left and right sides of defense. The club’s efforts to sell Wan-Bissaka suggest that they are actively seeking a suitable replacement.
Overall, Manchester United’s full-back situation is causing panic and urgency within the club. The absence of Shaw, Dalot, and Malacia, coupled with the potential sale of Wan-Bissaka, leaves United without recognized backup options. This crisis emphasizes the need for the club to find suitable replacements and strengthen their squad in order to compete effectively in the upcoming season.