Ruben Amorim’s squad conducted their training session at Carrington on Wednesday morning, ahead of their trip to Bilbao scheduled for later in the day. The session was held in front of the media, offering a rare glimpse into preparations for the upcoming European fixture. Notably, the training included appearances by Amad and Matthijs de Ligt, both of whom had been absent due to injury.
Amad participated in full team activities for the first time in months. He had been sidelined with an ankle injury sustained in February, which caused him to miss both legs of the quarter-final tie against Lyon and the previous round versus Real Sociedad. His return adds a creative option to Amorim’s tactical setup at a crucial time in the campaign.
De Ligt’s presence in training also drew attention. The Dutch defender has been unavailable since the loss to Nottingham Forest on 1 April. His absence was felt across recent matches, including the high-stakes encounters against Lyon. His return provides a potential boost to the team’s defensive depth.
Amad’s involvement suggests that his recovery has progressed well, as he engaged in regular drills with teammates and showed no visible discomfort. His presence on the pitch may not immediately translate to starting minutes, but his availability for selection enhances United’s attacking options from the bench.
Similarly, de Ligt’s return could be vital in solidifying the backline. Known for his composure and aerial presence, his experience in European competitions may influence Amorim’s defensive strategy, especially as the team prepares for the pressure of an away leg in Bilbao.
These developments come at an important juncture for the club, as fixture congestion and physical strain become more pressing late in the season. The return of previously injured players allows for greater squad rotation and tactical adaptability, essential in both domestic and European pursuits.
As the team prepares to depart for Spain, the overall mood at Carrington appeared focused and positive. Key players like Mainoo, Højlund, and Casemiro also looked sharp in training, giving Amorim a full-strength squad to choose from as he finalizes plans for the semi-final second leg.
With Amad and de Ligt back in contention, Manchester United are better positioned to handle the demands of the tie against Athletic Bilbao. Their inclusion offers both physical reinforcement and psychological lift ahead of what promises to be a decisive European night.
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