Manchester United’s Champions League Qualifier
Ahead of Manchester United’s pivotal Champions League qualifier against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday, manager Marc Skinner has revealed several key players are injured, impacting the squad’s readiness.
Injuries Impacting the Squad
Notably, new signing Fridolina Rolfö, Leah Galton, and Rachel Williams will all miss this crucial first leg of the tie. Additionally, Grace Clinton, who has been rumored to be on Manchester City’s radar, is also unavailable due to a minor injury, referred to by Skinner as a “little niggle”.
Skinner remarked, “We will keep an eye on Grace. After her recent performance at the Euros, she has a small niggle that we are managing. Aside from that, the rest of the squad is healthy and prepared for the match, which is a positive sign considering we are only a few weeks into preseason.”
Rolfö, Galton, and Williams are anticipated to be sidelined for two to three weeks.
Transfer Market Activity
In terms of the transfer market, Manchester United’s activity has been relatively quiet compared to expectations, with only two players — Rolfö and Julia Zigiotti Olme from Bayern Munich — joining the team. Skinner underscored the need for additional forward options, revealing that an attempt to sign German player Giovanna Hoffmann collapsed last week.
He stated, “We are looking to add forwards, ideally two before the transfer window closes on September 4.”
Skinner further expressed his strategy for enhancing the squad, saying, “Giovanna was among those we considered, but currently, the financial discussions have not reached an agreement. Rest assured, we are exploring various options in the attack.”
Looking Ahead
Wednesday’s clash marks Manchester United’s second venture into European competition, following their debut exit against Paris Saint-Germain two seasons ago. Success against PSV would lead them to face either Hammarby or Metalist Kharkiv in the next qualifying round.
