Cavani has missed the last five games with a groin problem
Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick confirmed that Edinson Cavani ruled himself out of selection for the Manchester derby on Sunday.
The Uruguayan was not part of the Red Devils’ squad for the visit to the Etihad Stadium, despite Rangnick suggesting on Friday that the striker would be fit.
Cavani has missed 31 games through injury this season and has made just 15 appearances so far in all competitions, registering two goals and one assist.
The striker has missed the last five games with a groin problem, but he was expected to return to the Red Devils’ squad for the Manchester derby.
However, Rangnick has since revealed that the former Paris Saint-Germain forward decided that he wasn’t fit enough to feature against Pep Guardiola’s men.
Speaking to MUTV, the German said: “Edi [Cavani] trained well the last three days but in the end didn’t feel quite well enough to play.”
Rangnick making it very clear to MUTV that Cavani has decided himself he's not able to play today.
"Edi trained well the last three days but in the end didn't feel quite well enough to play."
Rangnick suggested on Friday he would be fit.— Rob Dawson (@RobDawsonESPN) March 6, 2022
United are also without talisman Cristiano Ronaldo, who was ruled out of the derby with a hip injury. However, other reports suggested that the Portuguese captain is not actually injured and has instead been dropped by Rangnick.
An Instagram account – followed by Ronaldo – suggested that the forward asked to be left out of the squad after being told that he would be on the bench against City due to ‘tactical’ reasons.
Katia Aveiro, Ronaldo’s sister, increased speculation that the report might be correct by liking the post.
Related links:
- Roy Keane cracks up Sky Sports pundits with Micah Richards put down
- Ronaldo’s sister likes Instagram post claiming he isn’t injured, but has been dropped
- Conor McGregor confirms he’s serious about Chelsea as Abramovich departs
