Manchester United Receives Significant Injury Boost Ahead of Crystal Palace Match with 11 Squad Members Confirmed for Selection
Rasmus Højlund is yet to make his official debut for Manchester United this season, but the promising young forward is expected to be part of the squad for their upcoming clash against Crystal Palace on Saturday. This marks a significant development for the 21-year-old, who has been sidelined since his preseason debut on July 27 against Arsenal due to a hamstring injury. After weeks of recovery, Højlund has now traveled with the team to London, raising hopes that he might play a role in the game, even if it’s a cameo appearance off the bench.
For United manager Erik ten Hag, Højlund’s return offers a major boost. The Dutchman will be eager to have the Danish striker back in contention, particularly given the club’s substantial £62 million investment in him. Despite his absence, Manchester United has managed to deliver solid performances, securing two comfortable wins against Southampton and Barnsley, scoring 10 goals in total. Nevertheless, Højlund’s presence adds another dynamic element to United’s attack as they aim to continue their recent winning streak.
Ten Hag now faces a tough decision ahead of the match at Selhurst Park. With a range of attacking options at his disposal, including the likes of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Amad, and Joshua Zirkzee, all of whom are in great form, picking his starting lineup won’t be easy. Højlund’s availability only complicates matters further. His inclusion in the traveling squad suggests he is in contention for at least a spot on the bench, increasing competition for places and providing Ten Hag with valuable depth as the team navigates a busy fixture schedule.
Another player whose fitness is being monitored closely is Mason Mount. He resumed training this week after recovering from his own injury. While Ten Hag is pleased with the progress both Højlund and Mount have made, he remains cautious. The manager indicated that the club’s medical team would make a final decision on their inclusion for the match after further assessments. Though Mount wasn’t seen with the traveling squad, his absence doesn’t rule him out, as some players reportedly arrived through a private terminal at the airport.
Ten Hag expressed optimism about their recoveries, saying, “It’s great news that they are back in team training. We need to assess whether they are ready to start, but it’s encouraging to have them back in the squad.” He emphasized the importance of carefully managing their return to full fitness, not wanting to rush their reintegration into competitive play.
Ten Hag’s approach this season has been shaped by lessons from last year when injuries left his squad stretched thin at times. With a stronger squad this season, he feels better equipped to manage the demands of top-level football. “You have to be careful, but in football, pushing boundaries is part of it. Having a full squad makes it easier to manage player workloads, unlike last season when we had to overload certain players,” Ten Hag noted.
Alongside Højlund and Mount, midfielder Manuel Ugarte may also feature prominently in the upcoming game. Ugarte, spotted with the traveling squad, could be set to make his first Premier League start, bolstering United’s midfield options. His arrival brings additional depth and versatility, a welcome sight as United heads into a congested period of fixtures.
Veteran players like Tom Heaton, Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, and Casemiro also made the trip, along with creative midfielders such as Christian Eriksen and exciting forwards like Antony and Garnacho. This mix of experienced heads and young talent gives Ten Hag plenty of tactical flexibility as he prepares his team for the Crystal Palace encounter.
With Højlund’s return drawing closer, Manchester United fans are buzzing with anticipation. His signing was a marquee moment for the club, and his potential to impact the squad could provide a fresh boost as United looks to maintain its momentum in the Premier League and beyond. While Ten Hag is adopting a measured approach to the reintroduction of key players, the signs are promising that United’s increased squad depth and competition for spots will significantly enhance their chances of success this season.
