Manchester United are shell shocked after a handful of their players are suffering from illness caused by food poisoning. The Red Devils, after returning from their Europa League game against FC Sheriff in Moldova have had medical issues pertaining to illness in their squad. While food poisoning is reportedly the major reason cited for the players’ poor health, United suspect whether it was due to the food which they consumed in Chisinau, Moldova or during the flight back home.
The Premier League giants picked their first win in the Europa League against Sheriff, after the opening day defeat to Real Sociedad at home. Goals from Jadon Sancho an Cristiano Ronaldo, who opened his scoring account for the season from the spot helped United to a 2-0 win. However, it was the trip back from Moldova which has evidently cost them dear.
Up to 12 Manchester United players affected due to the food poisoning
While there’s still no official statement from Manchester United over the food poisoning case, latest reports reveal a staggering 12 players are sick after the consumption of their post-match meals. However, it is still unclear whether the clear failure of concerned authorities happened in Moldova or United’s flight back home. The Red Devils took a private jet back to England, onboard which the players were served with a meal.
All of the 12 players missed the training after returning to Carrington and are currently undergoing appropriate medication. The names of those players however have not been disclosed yet. Moreover, many of them were also called up by their respective nations for the fixtures during the international break and are now doubtful of reporting for the same.
Manchester United too were helped with some relieve as their weekend’s Premier League clash against traditional rivals Leeds United was cancelled due to ‘policing issues’ since the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II is being held. Had the game gone ahead as scheduled, Erik ten Hag would have been forced to name a massively depleted squad to face the Lilywhites.
While club football has been halted, affected players are still in danger to miss the fixtures of their respective nations. Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot [Portugal]; Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw [England]; Christian Eriksen [Denmark] Raphael Varane [France], Antony, Casemiro, Fred [Brazil]; and Lisandro Martinez [Argentina] are just some of the United players who have been named by their national coaches on their country’s roster.
However, as the names of those dozen players are undisclosed yet it is still not known who among these stars will not be available for their countries. Meanwhile, the biggest concern United boss Ten Hag will be having is their first game post the international break. Ten Hag’s first Manchester derby awaits him on October 2 against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City at the Etihad. The Dutchman will be hoping all his players are fit in time to face the defending Premier League champions.