Biggest winners & losers from Man Utd’s pre-season
TL;DR
Manchester United’s 2025 pre-season showcased strong team resilience, highlighted emerging stars like Mathues Cunha and Benjamin Sesko, and tested tactical shifts under Ruben Amorim.
Key winners include forward signings stepping up and midfield maestro Bruno Fernandes, while uncertainties linger on veterans and squad depth. This analysis breaks down performance, player impact, and strategic outlook to prepare fans for the Premier League season ahead.
Setting the Stage: Why Manchester United’s 2025 Pre-Season Matters
After a turbulent 2024-25 campaign concluding with a disappointing league finish and Europa League final loss, the 2025 pre-season became crucial. Under new head coach Ruben Amorim, the Red Devils faced intense pressure to evolve tactically and rebuild confidence. With no European football this season—a first since 2014-15—pre-season friendlies doubled as vital proving grounds. This meant high stakes in testing squad depth, new signings, and player form before the Premier League kick-off on August 15, 2025.
The pre-season schedule was intensive and included fixtures against competitive Premier League sides such as Leeds United, West Ham, Bournemouth, Everton, and an informative clash with Fiorentina at Old Trafford. Across these friendlies, Manchester United won two trophies: the Premier League Summer Series and the Snapdragon Cup, highlighting glimpses of progress in key team areas.
Biggest Winners from Manchester United’s Pre-Season
1. Mathues Cunha and Benjamin Sesko: Newly Signed Attackers Making an Impact
Despite the pressure, forward Mathues Cunha and Benjamin Sesko stood out prominently. Cunha, Manchester United’s £62.5m summer signing, featured heavily in friendlies and showed adaptability and threat upfront. Sesko added a physical dimension and fresh creativity, offering hope for a rejuvenated attack line. Their sharpness and chemistry in matches like the 4-1 thrashing of Bournemouth revealed potential for a strong strike partnership moving forward.
2. Bruno Fernandes: Leadership and Consistency in Midfield
Bruno Fernandes reaffirmed his role as the team’s creative linchpin, scoring key goals, including two penalties against West Ham. His vision and influence remained undiminished, symbolizing stability amidst squad transitions. Fernandes’ pre-season input helps set the tone for United’s attacking intent and tactical cohesion as Amorim experiments with his formation.
3. Ruben Amorim’s Tactical Adaptation: Early Signs of a Formula
Amorim’s approach, favoring a more fluid, Europa-style gameplay, began taking shape with notable successes in possession and high press during friendlies. His first full pre-season at the club delivered tangible progress, as evidenced in the team winning the Premier League Summer Series and Snapdragon Cup against top-flight opposition. This suggests a gradually solidifying strategy that can yield consistency in the demanding Premier League.
Biggest Losers and Areas of Concern from Pre-Season
1. Aging Vets and Squad Depth Uncertainties
With the retirement of Jonny Evans and the season-long loan move of Marcus Rashford to Barcelona, the squad felt the loss of experienced leaders. United’s first squad without a Premier League winner since 1992-93 faces depth challenges in defense and attack. Some lingering doubts remain about whether key midfielders and defenders have the stamina and form to sustain a grueling campaign.
2. Integration of Loan Returns and Fringe Players Still in Flux
The futures of returning loanees Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia remain unclear, with pre-season showing mixed signals about their roles. Their full integration into Amorim’s vision is ongoing. This uncertainty raises questions about squad harmony and attack fluidity at the season’s start.
3. Occasional Defensive Fragility Against Competitive Opponents
Despite overall progress, matches like the 2-2 draw against Everton and the penalty thriller with Fiorentina exposed defensive lapses. Amorim needs to shore up his backline to ensure consistency and reliability, especially against top-six rivals, where mistakes are costly.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Matchday Hours & Venue Info
Ticket Prices & Purchase
Ticket prices for Manchester United home games at Old Trafford in 2025 vary by match and seating category, starting from approximately £40 for upper-tier seats to £120+ for premium areas. Pre-season friendlies generally cost less.
Buy tickets via the official Manchester United ticket portal.
Matchday Hours & Facilities
Old Trafford gates open 90 minutes before kickoff with various food and merchandise outlets operating throughout the stadium. Matchday info can be checked on Manchester United Matchday Info.
Getting There: Location & Directions
Frequently Asked Questions about Manchester United’s Pre-Season
Who were the standout players in Manchester United’s 2025 pre-season?
Mathues Cunha and Benjamin Sesko impressed as new attackers, while Bruno Fernandes continued to lead creatively in midfield. Their performances indicated promising prospects for the upcoming season.
How did Manchester United perform in their pre-season matches?
They remained unbeaten across key fixtures, winning the Premier League Summer Series and Snapdragon Cup, with notable wins against West Ham (2-1) and Bournemouth (4-1), plus draws against Leeds (0-0), Everton (2-2), and Fiorentina (1-1, won 5-4 on penalties).
What tactical changes did Ruben Amorim implement during pre-season?
Amorim emphasized a more fluid, possession-based style with high pressing, adjusting formations that appeared better suited for European football. Early signs showed improved team structure and attacking intent.
Are there any concerns about the squad going into the season?
Yes, with some experienced players gone or loaned out and key loanees’ futures uncertain, the squad depth and defensive consistency remain concerns. Amorim’s ability to integrate everyone will be vital.
Final Tip for Fans & Followers
Stay connected with official Manchester United channels and reputable sports news sources throughout the season for live updates, tactical insights, and player news to deepen your understanding and enjoyment of the Red Devils’ evolving journey.
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