As the Premier League gears up for its highly anticipated start on Friday, several clubs are grappling with significant injury concerns that could shape the early weeks of the season.
Manchester United will kick off the new Premier League season against Fulham at Old Trafford on Friday in what promises to be a thrilling game.
Meanwhile, Manchester City begin their title defence at Chelsea on Sunday, August 18 in Enzo Maresca’s first official game in charge of the Blues.
While Liverpool kick off the Arne Slot era with a trip to Ipswich, Last season’s runners-up Arsenal host Wolves on Saturday.
Checks on the Premier League site by PUNCH Online on Thursday evening revealed that Arsenal, one of the title contenders, will be without key defenders Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu due to hamstring and knee issues respectively. Their absence could test the Gunners’ defensive depth from the outset.
Aston Villa, looking to build on last season’s success, faces a setback with midfielder Boubacar Kamara sidelined with a knee injury. Manager Unai Emery will need to reshuffle his midfield plans accordingly.
Manchester United’s injury list is particularly concerning for manager Erik ten Hag. New signing Leny Yoro is out due foot issue, while defenders Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw are also sidelined.
Newcastle United will be without key defender Sven Botman due to a knee injury. Manager Eddie Howe may need to reshuffle his backline for the opening fixtures.
Surprisingly, some teams have emerged relatively unscathed from pre-season. Liverpool, Crystal Palace, Fulham, and Nottingham Forest report no major injury concerns, giving their managers a full squad to choose from for the opening weekend.
As Fantasy Premier League managers frantically adjust their teams, these injury updates could prove crucial.
With star players like Manchester City’s Jack Grealish and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson listed as doubtful, many fantasy teams may require last-minute tweaks.
https://punchng.com/epl-key-players-injured-as-new-season-kicks-off/?utm_source=rss.punchng.com&utm_medium=web
