Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is facing selection headaches ahead of the Carabao Cup third-round match against Barnsley on Tuesday (8pm BST). He emphasizes the importance of rotating the squad in pursuit of a trophy.
Key players such as Luke Shaw, Victor Lindelof, Mason Mount, and Rasmus Hojlund are still sidelined. However, there is a possibility that winger Antony, the club’s second-most expensive signing, could make his first start of the season against Barnsley.
There is speculation about whether new signing Manuel Ugarte will make his first start after a substitute appearance in the previous Premier League match against Southampton.
Man United vs Barnsley
Ten Hag remains tight-lipped about the final selection for the game. He acknowledges the need to rotate the squad due to the hectic schedule and the availability of multiple players to choose from.
He states, “We definitely have to rotate because we have to cover so many games. It’s not only about the starting 11. It’s a nice headache.”
Man United injuries
Brazil international Antony, who was an £86 million signing in 2022, has had limited game time this season due to injuries. Mount and Shaw have also faced injury setbacks in the early stages of the season.
Despite the challenges, United managed to secure a win against Southampton, easing some of the pressure on manager Ten Hag.
Ten Hag, who has previously won the Carabao Cup and led the team to an FA Cup victory, emphasizes the significance of winning trophies and the team’s commitment to competing in every competition.
EFL Cup ‘significant’ for United
Ten Hag stresses the importance of winning trophies and acknowledges the competitive nature of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup. He affirms the team’s goal to win every game and compete for all available trophies.