Manchester United's turbulent start to the season has plunged into a full-blown crisis, with manager Erik ten Hag grappling with a devastating double blow to his attacking line-up.
The Red Devils' £72 million star signing, Rasmus Højlund, is facing up to a month on the sidelines after scans revealed a stress fracture in his back. The Danish international, who only recently arrived from Atalanta, suffered the injury during intense training sessions as he built up his match fitness.
In a further headache for Ten Hag, Brazilian winger Antony will remain unavailable for selection indefinitely. The £85 million forward is currently cooperating with police inquiries in Brazil following allegations made by his former partner. Both Greater Manchester Police and Brazilian authorities are investigating the claims.
Attack Decimated Before Critical Fixtures
This double absence leaves United desperately short of firepower ahead of a crucial period in their season. With Anthony Martial only just returning to full fitness and Marcus Rashford struggling for form, Ten Hag faces selection headaches across his forward line.
The timing could hardly be worse, with United preparing for their Premier League clash against Brighton this weekend before beginning their Champions League campaign against Bayern Munich.
Sporting's Ruben Amorim Emerges as Potential Solution
In response to this crisis, Manchester United have reportedly identified Sporting Lisbon's highly-rated manager Ruben Amorim as a potential long-term solution. The 38-year-old tactician has impressed with his attacking philosophy and success in Portugal, leading Sporting to their first league title in 19 years during the 2020-21 season.
While Ten Hag's position isn't immediately under threat, the club's hierarchy are known admirers of Amorim's work and modern approach to the game. His potential availability has alerted several top European clubs monitoring managerial situations.
United's recruitment team have been tracking Amorim's progress for several months, appreciating his development of young talent and implementation of an attractive, pressing style of football - elements that align with the club's traditional values.
The coming weeks will prove critical for Ten Hag's reign at Old Trafford, with results on the pitch and the resolution of off-field issues likely to determine his long-term future at the club.
