Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka is set to be sidelined for up to two months due to a hamstring injury. The 25-year-old was unexpectedly absent from the United starting XI in their recent 3-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion, only coming off the bench for the final five minutes of the match.
Before the game, manager Erik ten Hag had mentioned that Wan-Bissaka had been dealing with illness during the week, which is why he was only fit enough to feature as a substitute. Prior to this injury, Wan-Bissaka had started all four of United’s Premier League matches before the international break.
With Wan-Bissaka out, the only recognized right-back option for Ten Hag is Diogo Dalot. This injury comes at a busy period for United, as they have six matches in three different competitions scheduled before the next international break on October 9.
Unfortunately, United is also dealing with the long-term absence of fellow full-back Luke Shaw. Sergio Reguilon, who was brought in on loan from Tottenham Hotspur at the end of the transfer window, made his debut at left-back against Brighton. Tyrell Malacia is also currently injured.
United’s first Champions League group game is coming up on Wednesday when they travel to face Bayern Munich. Losing Wan-Bissaka for this crucial match is undoubtedly a blow for the team.
Analysis from The Athletic’s Manchester United reporter Carl Anka reveals the significance of Wan-Bissaka’s injury and how United might replace him. It took half a season for Wan-Bissaka to establish himself as a key player in Ten Hag’s plans during the 2022-23 season. Initially considered surplus to requirements at right-back, Wan-Bissaka’s fortunes changed after a winter camp with United during the 2022 World Cup.
Ten Hag has credited Wan-Bissaka’s activities following a game against Cadiz as the turning point that brought him back into the fold. Last season, Wan-Bissaka emerged as one of United’s top performers, showcasing improvement in defending against crosses directed towards the back post and contributing to the team’s attacking play with his 1-2 passes.
Losing Wan-Bissaka means that Ten Hag will be without his best 1v1 defender against wingers, placing additional pressure on Diogo Dalot, the team’s remaining senior right-back, to maintain defensive solidity. While Dalot may not possess the same level of 1v1 defending skills as Wan-Bissaka, he brings other qualities to the team, such as his ball-playing ability and willingness to venture into midfield.
In conclusion, Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s injury is a significant blow for Manchester United. His absence will be felt in both defensive and attacking aspects of the game. With a busy schedule ahead, United will have to rely on Diogo Dalot to step up and fill the void left by Wan-Bissaka. The team will need to find alternative solutions to cope with their defensive challenges and ensure they remain competitive in all competitions.