Manchester United will head into their 2025/26 Premier League opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday without defenders Noussair Mazraoui and Lisandro Martinez, who are both sidelined through injury.
Manager Ruben Amorim confirmed the duo’s absence during his first pre-match press conference of the new campaign, offering the initial team news ahead of the highly anticipated clash.
United are seeking their first league victory over Arsenal in two seasons as they kick off the campaign on home turf.
There was, however, some positive news for the Red Devils. Goalkeeper Andre Onana and forward Joshua Zirkzee have both returned to fitness after missing pre-season and are available for selection.
In addition, Benjamin Sesko could make his debut following his move from RB Leipzig last weekend.
Amorim suggested that Mazraoui and Martinez might be the only players missing from the squad as he prepares to face Mikel Arteta’s revamped Gunners, who finished second in the league last term.
“Nous and Licha are out,” Amorim told reporters at United’s newly upgraded Carrington training facility.
“They cannot play in this game. Josh recovered, Andre recovered, they are options for this game, we will see.”
When asked if Sesko was ready to start up front, the Portuguese coach was unequivocal.
“Of course,” he replied. “We didn’t have a lot of time but he’s ready. First of all, physically, he’s ready. That is a big component in our league.
“Then, he’s really smart. Every detail he asks, he’s a guy that is always thinking. He spends all afternoon here working on his fitness, so he’s ready to play, we will see if he’s going to start.”
