Reports emerging from the club suggest that Dalot was visibly distressed after picking up the knock, with witnesses claiming they heard him crying out loudly, a clear sign of the severity of the injury.
This development has come as a significant setback to Erik ten Hag’s plans as Manchester United aim to bounce back from a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign.
Dalot, who has been an important part of United’s defensive line, particularly due to his versatility in both attack and defense, will be a huge miss for the squad.
His ability to support the forward line with overlapping runs, combined with his defensive duties, has made him a critical player for the team, especially in the high-tempo pressing game that Ten Hag favors.
The loss of Dalot not only weakens the backline but also removes a key outlet on the right flank, an area where United has often sought to exploit opposition weaknesses.
The incident reportedly occurred during a routine training session on Thursday, where Dalot collided awkwardly with a teammate during a drill.
The right-back immediately fell to the ground clutching his leg, and it quickly became apparent that the injury was serious.
Medical staff rushed to his aid, and after a brief assessment, it was decided that he would not be able to continue with the session.
Dalot was then seen leaving the training ground on crutches, adding to fears that the injury could be more severe than initially anticipated.
Manchester United’s medical team is currently conducting further tests to determine the full extent of the injury.
Early indications suggest that Dalot could be sidelined for at least two weeks, potentially ruling him out of not only the Brighton game but also upcoming matches against Bayern Munich in the Champions League and Burnley in the Premier League.
This would be a significant blow to United’s defensive options, particularly with the recent injuries to other key defenders, leaving the squad somewhat thin in that department.
Supporters of Manchester United will undoubtedly be disappointed by this news, as Dalot’s absence will force Ten Hag to reshuffle his defensive setup once again.
With Aaron Wan-Bissaka being the likely candidate to fill in at right-back, questions will arise over whether he can provide the same attacking impetus that Dalot offers.
Wan-Bissaka, known for his defensive solidity, does not possess the same level of offensive threat as Dalot, and this could impact United’s ability to create chances down the right wing. It remains to be seen whether Ten Hag will consider a tactical adjustment to compensate for Dalot’s absence or whether he will trust Wan-Bissaka to step up and deliver in his stead.
The timing of Dalot’s injury could not have been worse for Manchester United, as they are entering a crucial phase of the season where they cannot afford to drop points.
The pressure on Ten Hag is mounting after a stuttering start to the campaign, with United already falling behind their rivals in the league standings.
The upcoming match against Brighton, who have started the season in impressive form, represents a tough challenge for United, and they will need to be at their best to secure a positive result.
Dalot’s injury adds to the growing list of concerns for the Dutch manager, who will now have to find a way to adapt his game plan without one of his key players.
There is also the emotional aspect of this situation to consider. Dalot, who has been a consistent performer for Manchester United, will be devastated to miss out on these crucial fixtures.
The sight of him leaving the training ground in tears is a testament to how much this setback means to him, both personally and professionally.
It is a reminder of the fine margins that exist in football, where one moment of misfortune can have a significant impact on a player’s career and the team’s fortunes.
For Manchester United fans, this news will undoubtedly be difficult to digest. Dalot’s injury not only weakens the team but also adds to the growing list of challenges that the club is currently facing.
The recent dip in form, coupled with injuries to key players, has created an atmosphere of uncertainty around Old Trafford, and supporters will be hoping that the team can rally together and overcome these obstacles.
However, the absence of Dalot, who has become a fan favorite due to his commitment and performances, will be keenly felt by both the players and the supporters.
In the coming days, Manchester United’s medical team will provide further updates on Dalot’s condition, and fans will be anxiously awaiting news on when they can expect to see him back in action.
In the meantime, all eyes will be on Ten Hag and his tactical adjustments as United prepare to face Brighton without one of their most reliable defenders.
The hope will be that the team can rise to the occasion and deliver a performance that lifts the spirits of the fans, despite the adversity they are currently facing.
As the club navigates through this challenging period, the importance of squad depth and resilience will be tested.
Manchester United will need to draw on all their resources to overcome the obstacles in their path, and while Dalot’s injury is a significant setback, the team will need to find a way to cope without him.
The next few weeks will be crucial in determining how United’s season unfolds, and the response to this latest challenge will be a key indicator of their ambitions for the campaign ahead.
