Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is confronting a significant selection headache ahead of Monday's Premier League encounter with Everton, following a training ground incident involving striker Matheus Cunha.
Training Ground Setback for Key Forward
The concern emerged on Saturday when the Brazilian forward was forced to pull out of a scheduled public appearance. Cunha had been due to switch on the Christmas lights in Altrincham, but organisers released a statement on social media revealing his withdrawal "due to medical reasons" after an "accident in training today".
This development places United in a difficult position, as they are already contending with the absence of fellow striker Benjamin Sesko. Amorim had previously confirmed that Sesko will be "a few weeks out" with an injury sustained in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham before the international break.
Assessment Ahead of Monday Night Football
While initial reports from ESPN suggest the issue may be a 'minor knock', Cunha's availability for the 8pm kick-off against Everton at Old Trafford remains uncertain. The club's medical staff will assess the 26-year-old in the hours leading up to the match.
Cunha, a £62.5 million summer signing from Wolves, was poised for a crucial role as a false number nine in Sesko's absence. Despite managing just one goal in 11 appearances this season, his partnership with new arrival Bryan Mbeumo has been a positive aspect of United's attack.
Broader Injury Concerns for United
The potential loss of Cunha compounds existing fitness issues within the squad. Defender Harry Maguire has been definitively ruled out of Monday's fixture. There is more optimism regarding midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who missed Friday's training session but was scheduled to be evaluated on Saturday.
Amorim acknowledged the challenge, stating, "There is an opportunity for other players like the under-21s. We will see it is not ideal. They are so important in our team."
Despite these setbacks, United approach the match in a decent run of form, unbeaten in their last five league games. Currently sitting 10th, a victory could potentially see them climb into the Premier League's top four depending on other results.
