Coach Ruben Amorim has received a double-mental boost ahead of the big match against Sunderland this weekend.
The Manchester United captain is trying to keep his seat after a heavy defeat to Brentford last weekend. He knew that another defeat could mark the end of his tenure at Old Trafford.
The "Red Devils" are currently 14th in the Premier League before hosting Sunderland at Old Trafford, with only 2 wins after 6 rounds. Amorim also suffered a humiliating defeat to Grimsby in the Carabao Cup, and he knows that the time to turn his situation around at Man United is running low.
A defeat to the "Black Cat" right before the 2-week international break could force INEOS to change its strategy and fire Amorim after less than a year in office. So far, he has only won 18 out of 49 matches in all competitions and is in dire need of regaining stability.
The return of Casemiro and Amad could be the key for the Portuguese tactician, as both have returned to training. Casemiro was absent from the match against Brentford due to suspension after a red card in the 2-1 victory over Chelsea. As for Amad, he was given a leave of absence because a relative in the family had passed away.
Meanwhile, Tyrell Malacia has also been welcomed back to training with the first team. The 26-year-old defender was a part of the Man United redundant list in the summer, but is the only player among the five who has not found a new destination.
Transfer offers for Malacia have been fading, and with his contract set to expire at the end of June next year, he is in a precarious situation at Old Trafford. Having been pushed down to practice with the U21 team, but thanks to his professionalism, he was promoted back to the first team.
The Dutchman has only made 47 appearances since joining for a £13 million fee from Feyenoord in the summer of 2022. He has undergone two knee surgeries, had to sit out for 17 months and is currently trying to find his place in the squad.
Malacia is currently behind Patrick Dorgu and Luke Shaw in the selection order, but the team's decline in form could see Amorim consider giving him a chance. In the second half of last season, the Dutch defender played for PSV Eindhoven on loan and made 12 appearances in all competitions. However, his physical strength is not guaranteed, so any of his comebacks at this time is also at risk.
However, Amad and Casemiro are likely to return to the squad when Man United host Sunderland. Amad has been used by Amorim as a right winger, starting five of the opening six games of the season. Meanwhile, Casemiro is still considered the top choice for the role of holding midfielder, alongside captain Bruno Fernandes.
The match between Man United and Sunderland takes place at 9:00 p.m. on October 4 (Vietnam time).
