With most of the big names not in action due to the ongoing World Cup, Manchester United’s friendlies with Spain were expected to give Erik ten Hag the chance to see his reserve bench and the graduates of the academy in action
But with the EFL Cup tie scheduled so close to the World Cup final, the EFL Cup clash against Burnley could require the reserve bench to step up if necessary.
Some positions have gained additional importance as certain United stars move deeper into the World Cup. And the Dutchman kept those players for longer against Real Betis.
United’s second friendly also ended in defeat, this time 1-0 at the hands of the sixth-placed LaLiga at the Benito VillamarÃn on Saturday.
Dalot injury opens RB spot for Burnley clash
One position that has become crucial for the United manager is the right-back position. During Portugal’s loss to Morocco, Diogo Dalot had to be substituted due to a possible hamstring injury.
There have been no updates on the severity, but in case it turns out to be bad, the Red Devils will need backup. Therefore, Ten Hag gave Aaron Wan-Bissaka 80 minutes to try and find his rhythm.
Beaten at night but won more important minutes ????#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 10, 2022
Unfortunately, the 25-year-old was again very poor, unable to advance and clumsy on the ball. Coming back from injury, rust was to be expected, but not the low levels of performance.
At one point in the second half, the former Crystal Palace defender had a chance to slice the ball into the penalty area where a pair of United youngsters were waiting.
His clumsiness on the ball meant he fired a wild cross that irritated his manager, who was seen berating the full-back from the touchline.
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It didn’t take long for him to be withdrawn and it was curious to see the manager not even shaking hands while patting Zidane Iqbal on the back as he was being withdrawn at the same time.
The former Ajax boss has played Tyrell Malacia in that position before, but it proved difficult due to his unfamiliarity with the position.
Wan-Bissaka had a chance to impress and perhaps extend his United career, but it seems unlikely that he will last beyond January.
