Manchester United defenders Victor Lindelof and Noussair Mazraoui were unexpectedly compelled to leave the match against Lyon at Old Trafford during halftime because of pressing family matters.
Manchester United experienced a night of dramatic and unforgettable European football on Thursday.
The Red Devils needed THREE late goals in extra time to recover from a 4-2 deficit and defeat Lyon 5-4, after initially leading 2-0 earlier in the game.
Harry Maguire scored a header in injury time, securing United`s place in the Europa League semi-finals against Athletic Bilbao.
However, manager Amorim revealed some concerning news.
Amorim spoke to TNT Sports on the field after the match.
He disclosed that Lindelof and Mazraoui had to leave the stadium to address a personal matter.
He did not provide further details about the issue.
Amorim stated: “We had a problem with Noussa at halftime.
“Vic has a personal problem, he had to leave.”
SunSport understands that Amorim`s remarks pertained to both Lindelof and Mazraoui, each dealing with separate urgent family issues.
Lindelof, 30, was warming up during halftime.
The Swedish defender was expected to replace Noussair Mazraoui after the first half.
However, due to Lindelof`s emergency situation, Luke Shaw had to be brought on instead.
Amorim mentioned that the plan was for the Englishman to play only 30 minutes as he returns from a prolonged injury.
Instead, he ended up playing over 75 minutes as United surrendered their two-goal advantage, leading to extra time.
Ten-man Lyon then scored two more goals, including a penalty conceded by Shaw, before Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Maguire scored in the 114th, 120th, and 121st minutes, completing an incredible comeback.
Amorim, who positioned Maguire as a forward during extra time, added: “I was watching the 1999 [Treble] documentary for inspiration in these moments.
“It was an amazing night. The team was tired, down 4-2 with an extra player, we think it’s over, but here it`s never over.
“Here, anything is possible, you can feel the atmosphere. At 4-3, after Bruno Fernandes` penalty, we felt we could turn the game around.
“We decided to put Harry Maguire upfront because he is the only one capable of scoring a header.
“The stadium`s noise was the best ever. I feel for those who left at 4-2 due to traffic; they will be devastated.
“We know we are underperforming and deserve all the criticism, but we still have time to make this season special.
“One moment can change a lot in the players` minds. We must focus on the Europa League and sometimes take risks with youngsters in the Premier League. Fans have to understand that our priority is the Europa League.”
