Luke Shaw to Miss Premier League Matches Due to Injury

Manchester United has announced that left-back Luke Shaw will be sidelined at the beginning of the Premier League season due to a calf injury sustained during international duty with England. The 29-year-old defender, who struggled with injuries last season, will miss crucial matches, including the opener against Fulham and a significant clash with rivals Liverpool. The club hopes Shaw will return after the first international break, which follows three league games. Shaw's absence compounds United's injury woes, as new signings Leny Yoro and striker Rasmus Hojlund are also unavailable. Yoro is expected to be out for three months following foot surgery, while Hojlund is dealing with a hamstring issue. Manager Erik ten Hag has had to adapt his lineup, utilizing Lisandro Martinez at left-back during the recent Community Shield match against Manchester City, alongside Harry Maguire and Jonny Evans in central defense. The injury crisis leaves United without their two primary left-backs, as Tyrell Malacia is also recovering from a long-term injury. In light of these challenges, Ten Hag may consider alternative options, including Noussair Mazraoui, who has experience playing on the left, and promising teenager Harry Amass, who impressed during pre-season. As the transfer window approaches its deadline, United's management is prioritizing the acquisition of a midfielder, with Paris Saint-Germain's Manuel Ugarte as their top target. However, the club faces challenges in negotiating a lower transfer fee, while also monitoring other potential signings.