Manchester United received a major injury boost ahead of their crucial Europa League semi-final against Athletic Bilbao. Amad Diallo and Matthijs de Ligt both returned to training this week, raising hopes for their involvement in the season’s final stretch.
Diallo has been out since February after suffering an ankle injury. Initial fears suggested the 22-year-old might miss the rest of the season. However, he recovered faster than expected and rejoined the squad in training. Although he’s unlikely to play the away leg in Bilbao, Diallo could return for the home fixture on May 8.
De Ligt also returned to training following an ankle injury he picked up earlier this month. The Dutch defender sustained the knock in United’s loss to Nottingham Forest. Head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed that de Ligt is close to full fitness and might feature on Thursday.
While Diallo and De Ligt’s return brings relief, Amorim must still manage without Diogo Dalot. The Portuguese defender missed the 2–2 draw against Bournemouth due to a calf injury. Amorim, speaking on Friday, said, “Diogo Dalot is out. We don’t know how long yet, but he won’t play in the next few games.”
He added that Dalot could miss the rest of the season. However, the team will assess him weekly to determine any progress.
United’s Europa League run now carries added significance. It offers their best chance of ending a disappointing season on a high. More importantly, it provides a possible route back into the UEFA Champions League. This qualification would not only restore prestige but also bring a much-needed financial boost.
The Red Devils earned a late draw against ten-man Bournemouth on Sunday, inching to 40 points. That total marks their lowest at this stage of any Premier League season. With league form faltering, all eyes turn to Europe, where Diallo and De Ligt may help United rewrite their season’s narrative.
