The Columbus Crew face a tough test on May 12 against the New York Red Bulls in Harrison, New Jersey, and they'll be doing so without several key players. Forward Jamal Thiaré is set to miss his third consecutive game due to a lower-leg issue, while defender Malte Amundsen and midfielder Dylan Chambost are listed as questionable. This injury report spells potential trouble for a team already reeling from recent losses.

Thiaré's absence is particularly challenging because his blistering speed is a crucial weapon against pressing defenses, forcing opponents to play deeper. Meanwhile, Amundsen, sidelined with a thigh injury, has become an integral part of coach Henrik Rydstrom's 4-4-2 system on the backline. His absence was felt in the Crew's 3-2 loss to Minnesota United on May 2, where he was replaced at halftime. The team's structure struggled after Rydstrom adjusted the system to accommodate substitute Yevhen Cheberko, and things only got worse in the following match—a 3-0 drubbing by New York City FC at Yankee Stadium, where turnovers led to a hat trick for Hannes Wolf.

Adding to the midfield concerns, Dylan Chambost—who just signed a contract extension on April 23—is nursing an ankle injury. Losing him would create a significant void in the center of the park. "Malte, he's so important for our way of playing," Rydstrom said on May 12 at the OhioHealth Performance Center. "He's also a person that is very open-minded and likes to be challenged. Not having him has maybe highlighted some problems with our squad depth, as we don't really have a clear option there."

The Crew are also without forward Wessam Abou Ali, who is out for the season after undergoing knee surgery. As Columbus looks to bounce back from back-to-back defeats, the depth of their roster will be tested against a Red Bulls side known for its high-energy pressing game. For fans tracking the team's journey, these injury setbacks underscore the importance of every player's role—and the gear that keeps them performing at their best. Stay tuned for updates as the Crew aim to turn their season around.