Football Digest: Arsenal defeat Man Utd 3-1
Manchester United rushed through the deadline day signing of Sofyan Amrabat despite detecting an injury during his medical, according to reports. Amrabat became United’s sixth summer capture last week but may face a wait to make his debut, similar to Rasmus Hojlund after his £72million switch.
Hojlund arrived at United from Atalanta before the season started but only made his first appearance as a substitute in Sunday’s 3-1 defeat at Arsenal.
The Red Devils sent Hojlund to London for scans after discovering a back issue but deemed it treatable without surgery and pressed forward with plans to sign him.
Erik ten Hag was desperate for a new striker in the summer after having to rely heavily on Marcus Rashford for goals last season.
And he equally craved a second midfielder before the deadline after a clear unbalance in his engine room became clear in United’s opening three Premier League games.
After weeks of strong speculation, Amrabat finally landed at Old Trafford on Friday, joining on an £8.5million season-long loan with a £17m option to buy.
But he was at the centre of a hitch similar to Hojlund’s while United oversaw his medical in Pisa.
READ MORE Transfer news LIVE – Man Utd confirm exit and Salah’s transfer belief[BLOG]
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
According to The Athletic, United identified a minor back injury before Amrabat completed his examinations, which will have delayed the green light.
However, the club didn’t consider the problem serious and ensured the deal went through with the agreed terms.
Amrabat struggled with back problems throughout Morocco’s run to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals in Qatar, where he was one of the stars of the tournament.
The 27-year-old reportedly received pain-killing injections so that he could feature in Morocco’s round of 16 victory over Spain.
And the issues that arose during his medical may come as a concern amid growing injury issues in Ten Hag’s squad.
DON’T MISS
Sheikh Jassim may buy Man Utd in two months after claims sale ‘delayed'[TAKEOVER]
Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag has a problem with three players including Hojlund[LATEST]
Saudis could sign 26 Prem players this week including five Man Utd stars[GOSSIP]
United are currently without Tom Heaton, Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount and Amad.
Lisandro Martinez also left the pitch with a suspected injury against Arsenal, though he has travelled for Argentina duty.
Scott McTominay missed the clash at the Emirates Stadium through illness, the same issue that saw Victor Lindelof also hauled off early in north London.
And Ten Hag’s ongoing spat with Jadon Sancho has damaged his attacking options to pile on a problematic start to the campaign.
But Amrabat’s arrival is highly anticipated and expected to spark instant improvement. Ten Hag will hope he isn’t made to wait to integrate him.
Follow Daily Express on Threads for all the latest news
Source: Read Full Article
