Manchester United have a lot to play for in the 2023/24 Premier League final matchday on Sunday, May 19, 2024.
The Red Devils are out of all of the European places, sitting 8th on the table with 57 points after 37 games. They won the penultimate fixture against challengers for the European slot Newcastle United but will need another victory against Brighton to boost their chances for European football next season.
Newcastle United occupy the last slot for European football next season but are tied on the same points with United, thanks to a superior goal difference that has separated the two sides.
While Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has borne the brunt of the blame for United’s less-than-stellar campaign this season, the Dutchman deserves some slacks in the narrative due to United’s injury crisis.
Heading into the last game against Brighton, United have now been handed a big boost with two of their top defenders – Victor Lindelof and Raphael Varane – back to the turf.
Erik ten Hag confirmed the return of the pair while speaking in his last press conference for the season.
The under-pressure gaffer said Lindelof and Raphael Varane are in contention to start against Brighton, having returned to fitness after their injuries.
”Yes, Raph and Vicky are back to training. They are fit and could be in the starting lineup against Brighton,” Ten Hag said.
With the pair back to Ten Hag’s defense options, United are expected to receive a big boost facing the Seagulls.
However, they still have scores of first-team stars sidelined ahead of the final matchday. Leading the list is Tyrell Malacia, who has yet to taste action throughout this term. Luke Shaw is also sidelined, including Harry Maguire and Mason Mount.
