Manchester United’s pre-season tour in the United States comes at a time of rare positivity during the summer months. Most years, in mid-July, we wouldn’t be satisfied by the club’s business. That isn’t the case this summer despite two major international tournaments delaying proceedings in the transfer market.
United have two deals done already and one of those players had no involvement in competitive football over the summer. That is why Leny Yoro will be going on tour with the rest of the first time. He gets a chance to settle in his new environment, learn the vibe of the dressing room and earn his place before the competitive campaign begins. That is the biggest benefit of getting our business done early. It allows the manager to prepare his side as a group – once everyone returns to training, that is.
This tour could set United up for a big season as a squad overhaul takes place. Patience will be required since it’s likely to take years to build a squad desired by new club officials. However, it could still be a big season if United can improve their league form and win more silverware.
Analysing tactical shifts
The football we played last season was abysmal for the most part. For the upcoming campaign, United need to prove they’re worthy of not just winning football matches, but with a clear style of play.
Ten Hag regularly opted to play with a 4-2-3-1 formation and a lot of the squad selections show you that United were not well equipped in most departments. With more depth and quality in the squad, the manager will be demanded to address issues that were easily identified in our performances throughout the season.
It will be interesting to see if we stick with that on tour or if United will adapt a more fluid tactical setup. The friendly matches allow Ten Hag to test new things with his team and I’m intrigued to see if we see things change over time.
One aspect of our game that I suspect will change is United’s high line. It wasn’t very high last season, but we will hopefully have the players available to make a difference when the 2024/25 season begins.
The US tour offers a perfect backdrop to witness how Ten Hag’s tactical philosophies translate on the pitch, after dusting off last season by winning the FA Cup.
Opportunity for academy players
One of the biggest positives with Ten Hag is how he manages young players on the cusp of breaking through into the first team. Since taking charge at Old Trafford, Ten Hag has seen two academy prospects become first-team regulars. Who will be next to join Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo?
A number of the academy lads will be flying out to the US with the first-team. All of them will be doing their utmost to impress Ten Hag and his coaching staff. Some of them include Harry Amass, Maximillian Oyedele, Toby Collyer and Joe Hugill.
Development and player improvement
Keeping players fit
United must prioritise the fitness of key players by ensuring the squad is prepared for the new season in the best way possible. Injuries made Ten Hag’s second season in charge a miserable experience for those on the terraces, and everyone should be returning to set the record straight at Old Trafford.
Marcus Rashford picked up a minor knock in training last week, therefore, missed the 2-0 win over Rangers at Murrayfield in Edinburgh. He has returned to training ahead of the US tour and will be hoping to stay injury free ahead of big season for the experienced academy graduate.
Opponents
United have three matches in the United States this summer.
Fans across the Atlantic Ocean will get the opportunity to see their footballing heroes up close when United come to the US. We know of season ticket holders who will be travelling across the world to watch their beloved United, as per usual.
United will meet Arsenal at the SoFi Stadium on July 27, before facing Real Betis at the Snapdragon Stadium on July 31.
The final game of the US tour is against Liverpool at the Williams-Brice Stadium on August 3.
After that, United will return to the UK to prepare for the Community Sheild against rivals Man City.
How to watch Manchester United on pre-season tour
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