During a dramatic Europa League match against Lyon, Manchester United defenders Victor Lindelof and Noussair Mazraoui had to leave Old Trafford at halftime due to pressing family issues.
Manchester United experienced a night of incredible European football, securing a memorable victory on Thursday.
Credit: Rex
Credit: Getty
Credit: Getty
The Red Devils fought back from a 4-2 deficit, scoring three late goals in extra time to defeat Lyon 5-4, after initially leading 2-0.
Harry Maguire scored a header in injury time, securing United`s place in the Europa League semi-finals against Athletic Bilbao.
However, manager Amorim revealed concerning news after the match.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Amorim disclosed that Lindelof and Mazraoui had to leave the stadium due to personal emergencies.
He did not provide further details about the nature of these issues.
Amorim stated, “We had a problem with Noussa at half time. Vic has a personal problem, he had to leave.”
Sources indicate that both Lindelof and Mazraoui faced separate urgent family issues.
Lindelof, 30, was seen warming up at halftime and was expected to substitute Noussair Mazraoui.
However, due to Lindelof`s emergency, Luke Shaw was brought on instead.
Amorim mentioned that Shaw was only intended to play for 30 minutes as part of his recovery from a long injury.
Ultimately, Shaw played over 75 minutes as United conceded their two-goal advantage, leading to extra time.
Despite being down to ten men, Lyon scored two more goals, including a penalty conceded by Shaw. Yet, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Maguire scored in the 114th, 120th, and 121st minutes, completing a remarkable comeback.
Amorim, who positioned Maguire as a forward in extra time, added, “I watched the 1999 Treble documentary for inspiration. It was an incredible night. The team was exhausted, and at 4-2 with an extra player, it seemed over, but it`s never over here.”
“Anything is possible here, you can feel the atmosphere. At 4-3, after Bruno Fernandes` penalty, we felt we could turn the game around.”
“We decided to put Harry Maguire upfront because he’s the only player who can score with a header. The stadium`s noise was the best ever. Some collect memorabilia, but I want to keep that sound; it`s the best sound in the world.”
“I feel for those who left at 4-2 due to traffic; they will be devastated.”
“We know we are underperforming and deserve all criticism, but we have time to make this season special. One moment can change the players` mindset. We must focus on the Europa League and sometimes take risks with younger players in the Premier League. Fans need to understand this; the Europa League is our priority.”
