Man United have seen a massive slump during the second half of the season and chances are, they could fall even further.
Last weekend, the Red Devils lost 1-0 to an Everton side who are currently 17th on the Premier League table and with as many as five major players missing, Manchester United might be staring at another defeat.
United are looking completely disjointed at the moment and with so many key first-team players missing, Ralf Rangnick will have a nightmare in naming a strong starting line up.
Man United injury list:
Luke Shaw – The full-back is out with a shin injury and as per the manager, he will be out of action for two to three weeks. Alex Telles will deputise on the left-hand side in his absence.
Edinson Cavani – The striker has been injured for almost this whole season and right now, he is recovering from his latest injury which is in his calf.
Ronaldo picked up a gash on his shin during the Everton game but CR7 cannot be rested because Cavani is unavailable.
McTominay – The midfielder is ruled out with a foot problem and he is not likely going to be fit in time for the Man United vs Norwich City tie.
Fred – This is a double whammy after the Brazilian picked up a knock during the Everton loss meaning both of the first-choice defensive midfielders are out.
Fred has long been criticised at Old Trafford…
…but under Ralf Rangnick he has transformed into Man United’s most consistent performer.
‣ In a more advanced role
‣ High-pressing no.8
‣ More influence in attackFinally playing in the position he was bought to play. pic.twitter.com/b9Ku3Rmoow
— Sporting Life Football (@SportingLifeFC) April 9, 2022
After the Everton game, the United boss had said: “Fred had some muscular problems on his hip flexor. We already are without McTominay. Without both defensive midfielders, it isn’t good for us.”
The absence of McFred means Pogba and Nemanja Matic will have to pair up in central midfield.
Raphael Varane – This is without a doubt the biggest blow for Rangnick because, without the Frenchman, the average pairing of Harry Maguire and Lindelof will play in central defence in the Man United vs Norwich City tie.
With this pairing, United lose all their pace in the defensive line and to make matters worse, these two defenders are more than happy at playing square passes.
Norwich are the last side on the Premier League table so beating them should not be a problem for Man United but Ralf Rangnick’s side have particularly struggled against the sides who like to sit deep and defend so it will be a bit tough to predict this tie.