Rasmus Hojlund put the Red Devils ahead early, but Gabriel Jesus equalized with a well-executed passing move.
Rasmus Hojlund and new signing Leny Yoro suffered first-half injuries as Manchester United lost 2-1 to Premier League rivals Arsenal in their opening US tour game in Los Angeles. Hojlund gave United an early lead in the 10th minute, outmuscling Ayden Heaven and scoring through Karl Hein’s legs. However, a muscle injury forced him off after 15 minutes. Yoro, a £52m addition from Lille also left the field with an injury after lengthy treatment.
These injuries pose a major concern for manager Erik ten Hag, who is already dealing with the fallout from last season’s injury-plagued campaign. United face their Premier League opener against Fulham in less than three weeks. Despite these setbacks, United won the post-match penalty shootout 4-3 with Jadon Sancho scoring the decisive spot-kick.
Ten Hag highlighted the intense demands on players this season and anticipated injuries. Unfortunately, both Rasmus Hojlund and Leny Yoro left the field with injuries. Hojlund felt his groin before heading straight down the tunnel. Yoro needed lengthy treatment before slowly making his way off the field. Victor Lindelof also sat out due to a minor injury, prompting Rhys Bennett to partner Harry Maguire in defense.
On a positive note, Mason Mount’s performance brightened Ten Hag’s day. The former Chelsea midfielder, who struggled with injuries last season, looked lively and posed a genuine threat throughout the game. Arsenal displayed fluidity in possession and showcased their depth. Emile Smith-Rowe missed the squad as negotiations for his move to Fulham continue.
Despite lacking key players like Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli stood out with Martinelli scoring the decisive goal after cutting inside 17-year-old James Scanlon. The match took place on a grass pitch grown specifically for the game which stadium officials will remove for other events.
They cited cost-effectiveness but acknowledged the environmental impact, noting they had yet to find another party to take the pitch.
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