Man United vs West Ham: Ruben Amorim explains dropping Leny Yoro and reveals Matthijs de Ligt absence

Ruben Amorim has addressed two major selection calls ahead of Manchester United’s clash with West Ham United — the benching of Leny Yoro and the absence of Matthijs de Ligt.

Yoro, who was substituted in the 54th minute at Crystal Palace after conceding a penalty, was visibly emotional on the bench that night. For today’s match, Amorim opted to leave the young defender out of the starting XI entirely, instead bringing in Noussair Mazraoui while also handing Ayden Heaven his first Premier League start of the season.

Speaking to Sky Sports before kick-off, Amorim said he understood Yoro’s frustration but insisted the decision was purely tactical.

“As a manager, we need to think about everything,” he said. “I spoke to Leny, not about leaving him out but about the message. He is so disappointed, but it is a tactical issue. It is a clear option and a tactical option. Today we need to win, no matter what.”

De Ligt absence clarified

Amorim also confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt misses the match altogether due to a minor issue flagged earlier in the week. The defender had played every minute of United’s Premier League campaign until today and was November’s Player of the Month. The manager expects him back soon but felt it necessary to act cautiously with a busy festive schedule ahead.

With Yoro benched and De Ligt unavailable, Ayden Heaven steps into the back line — a massive opportunity on the biggest stage.