Amid the much-anticipated commencement of the Premier League this Friday, numerous clubs are grappling with significant injury setbacks that could potentially influence the early matches of the season.
The curtain raises with Manchester United facing Fulham at Old Trafford in what promises to be an exciting kickoff to the new Premier League season.
Simultaneously, Manchester City commences their title defense playing against Chelsea on Sunday, August 18 under the guidance of new manager Enzo Maresca.
Liverpool begins the Arne Slot era with a visit to Ipswich, while last season’s runners-up, Arsenal, host Wolves on Saturday.
Per a check on the Premier League website by PUNCH Online, it was revealed on Thursday evening that Arsenal, a strong title contender, will miss the services of key defenders Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu due to hamstring and knee injuries respectively. The absence of these players could pose a challenge to Arsenal’s defensive lineup right from the start.
Aston Villa, aiming to build on the successes of the previous season, encounters a setback with midfielder Boubacar Kamara out with a knee injury. Manager Unai Emery will need to revise his midfield strategies accordingly.
Manchester United’s injury woes are particularly distressing for manager Erik ten Hag. Their new signing, Leny Yoro, is sidelined due to a foot problem, while defenders Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw are also facing time off.
Newcastle United will have to navigate their matches without key defender Sven Botman, who is out with a knee injury. Manager Eddie Howe might have to rethink his defensive setup for the initial fixtures.
Conversely, some teams have managed to emerge unscathed from the pre-season. Liverpool, Crystal Palace, Fulham, and Nottingham Forest have reported no major injury concerns, providing their managers with a full squad selection for the opening weekend.
With Fantasy Premier League managers hastily making alterations to their teams, these injury updates could hold significant importance during team selection.
Considering players like Manchester City’s Jack Grealish and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson being listed as doubtful, many fantasy teams may require last-minute adjustments.