Manchester United secured a comeback victory over Real Betis in San Diego, but the performance was overshadowed by a growing list of injury concerns.
The Red Devils fought back from a goal down to win 3-1, with Marcus Rashford, Amad Diallo and Casemiro all getting on the scoresheet. However, the win was overshadowed by the loss of several key players to injury.
Rashford, who had converted a penalty early in the game, was forced off after a heavy tackle. He limped off the pitch, clutching his foot, and his involvement in the coming weeks is now uncertain.
Fellow forward Antony also suffered an injury, prompting him to throw his wrist wrap to the ground in frustration.
The latest injuries add to Ten Hagâs growing concerns, as the club have already been dealing with the absence of Rasmus Hojlund, who is set to miss six weeks with a hamstring injury. Leny Yoro is also out for three months with a fractured metatarsal.
Yoroâs injury, sustained during the club's US tour opener against Arsenal, is a particular cause for concern. The young defender looked crestfallen as he left the pitch in the early stages of the game, knowing the severity of the injury. Initial scans revealed a fracture of his fifth metatarsal, and while further tests are planned in the UK, it seems a lengthy spell on the sidelines is inevitable.
His absence forced Ten Hag to field a rather familiar backline, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof partnering in defence. The duo, last seen together in August 2019 under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, performed adequately, conceding only when Tom Heaton inadvertently deflected a shot into the path of Real Betis winger Rodri, who set up Iker Losada for the opening goal.
With both Maguire and Lindelof replaced at half-time by Jonny Evans and Will Fish, Ten Hag's focus on limiting further injury risks became apparent.
Yoro's injury is likely to push Manchester United back into the transfer market, with moves for Matthijs de Ligt and Jarrad Branthwaite potentially back on the agenda.
Meanwhile, Amad Diallo continued his impressive pre-season form, putting in a dazzling performance against Real Betis. He played a key role in all three goals, showcasing his trickery and vision in the final third.
Diallo's impressive display provides Ten Hag with a real selection headache, particularly with the return of Alejandro Garnacho looming. The young winger has staked his claim for a starting spot on the right-hand side, but Diallo's impressive form could challenge his position.
Despite the impressive victory and Amadâs outstanding performance, the ongoing injury issues cast a shadow over the game. Ten Hag will be desperate for more positive news on the injury front, especially with the Premier League season just around the corner.