Man United injury latest: Zirkzee, Amad, Ligt - Who will be fit for the Lyon clash?

Manchester United are sweating on the fitness of several key players as they prepare for Thursday night’s crucial Europa League quarter-final second leg against Lyon at Old Trafford.

Ruben Amorim’s side, coming off a 4-1 Premier League defeat to Newcastle United on Sunday, need a win to keep their Champions League qualification hopes alive after a 2-2 draw in the first leg.

Joshua Zirkzee – Hamstring Injury

Joshua Zirkzee is a major doubt for Lyon after limping off just ten minutes into the second half against Newcastle. The Dutch striker, who clutched his hamstring before walking off with physio help, faces tests to determine the damage.

A grade one strain could see him sidelined for two weeks, ruling him out until late April, while a grade two partial tear might keep him out for a month—potentially until mid-May, per medical estimates.

Zirkzee’s header in Lyon, his seventh goal for United, had fans hopeful, but his “hurt” reaction to the late draw showed his passion. Amorim praised his fightback after December’s boos against Newcastle, making this blow a bitter one.Possible return date: Late April (best case) to mid-May.

Amad Diallo remains on the sidelines with an ankle injury picked up before February’s 2-1 loss to Tottenham. Initially feared to be season-ending, Amorim offered hope earlier this month, saying, “I don’t want to say anything, but I have the hope to have Amad before the end of the season.”

United’s social media update last Thursday showed the Ivorian running on a treadmill, doing strength exercises, and stretching—clear signs of progress. Fans are eager for the winger’s return, given his joint-second-highest goal tally (five) before the injury. However, he’s not expected back for Lyon, with a May comeback the target. Possible return date: May 2025.

Matthijs de Ligt’s status for Lyon is uncertain after he missed the Newcastle game with an undisclosed issue. The centre-back, who’s been a steady presence in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 with seven starts since March, didn’t travel to St James’ Park, and United haven’t detailed the problem.

De Ligt’s block against Leicester’s Facundo Buonanotte last month earned an 8/10 rating, but his absence left Harry Maguire and Leny Yoro to hold the fort. Amorim’s tight-lipped, but a minor knock could see De Ligt return for Lyon; anything worse might push him to April’s end. Possible return date: April 17 (Lyon, best case) or late April.

United’s injury woes have tested Amorim, who benched Andre Onana for Altay Bayindir against Newcastle after Lyon’s howlers.

With Zirkzee likely out, Rasmus Hojland will lead the line, backed by Bruno Fernandes’ creativity. Fans on X are nervous: @MUFC_Dave tweeted, “No Zirkzee, no Amad—how do we beat Lyon?” But @RedArmy4Life urged, “Højlund’s time to shine.” United need a healthy squad to overturn Lyon’s away-goal edge—Thursday’s a must-win.