Manchester United enters the new season under Michael Carrick’s full-time management following a five-week preseason that included six matches. The club posted two wins, two draws, and two defeats during this period, but club officials identified multiple areas of positive development alongside remaining concerns.
Several players made strong impressions during preparation. Midfielder Andrey Santos, a £48m summer signing from Chelsea who turned 22 years old, demonstrated rotational ability, positional discipline, and communication throughout all six games. Youri Tielemans, the other major summer arrival, showed composure that officials believe could benefit the broader squad, with his partnership alongside captain Bruno Fernandes appearing promising. Defenders Ayden Heaven and Leny Yoro impressed, while academy prospect Shea Lacey, age 19, demonstrated potential despite requiring gradual integration. Bryan Mbeumo displayed the energized form from earlier in the previous season.
However, gaps exist in the squad. Striker Benjamin Sesko and goalkeeper Karl Darlow did not feature during preseason. Mason Mount, considered the standout performer through the first three matches, was withdrawn on 8 August as a precaution following a blow during a match against Paris St-Germain. Several players identified as surplus to requirements remain in the squad, including midfielder Toby Collyer and full-back Harry Amass, with loan moves being considered more likely than permanent exits.
Transfer business remains incomplete. The club has identified urgent needs for competition at left-back, given Luke Shaw’s contract situation and unclear availability for multiple fixtures weekly. Central midfield depth also warrants attention. Marcus Rashford’s future requires resolution, with sources indicating expectation he will remain despite lingering uncertainty. Joshua Zirkzee’s future similarly remains unclear amid Italian interest.
Carrick emphasized the need for realism heading forward, noting the club recognizes it lacks sufficient depth in several positions. Upcoming fixtures against Hull and Ipswich provide an opportunity to begin well, though the manager acknowledged such seemingly favorable scenarios have previously presented challenges for the club.
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