Report: Key Updates from Man Utd’s Pre-season Preparations | OneFootball

Manchester United’s Pre-season Preparations: Greenwood, Sancho, and Transfer Strategies

Manchester United’s return to training marks a pivotal phase as Erik ten Hag’s team gear up for the 2024-25 season. With fresh executive appointments and a bustling transfer window, the focus at Old Trafford is sharp on restructuring and strengthening.

Key Executive Changes and Ten Hag’s Extended Tenure

July brings a fresh beginning at United with Dan Ashworth stepping in as the new sporting director and Christopher Vivell taking up the role of temporary director of global talent. Significantly, Erik ten Hag’s management term has been extended through 2026, following a successful review. This continuity in leadership is crucial as United addresses the roster changes and strategic signings required to fortify their lineup.

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Mason Greenwood and Jadon Sancho: Futures in Limbo

Mason Greenwood returns to United from his loan spell at Getafe, yet his future remains uncertain. Despite scoring 10 goals last season, his involvement with the club is under speculation. “Greenwood is likely to be given additional time off as the club continues working to secure a possible sale,” with Marseille and Lazio showing keen interest. The young striker’s tenure at United seems to be veering towards a permanent exit.

Photo: IMAGO

On the other hand, Jadon Sancho is set to return to Carrington after his stint at Borussia Dortmund. The relationship between Sancho and Ten Hag has been strained, to say the least. Sancho’s critique of the managerial decisions and his subsequent isolation from the team have created a rift that might not easily mend. As United was open to offers for him at the start of the window, his future also hangs in a delicate balance.

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Transfer Window Dynamics and Defensive Reinforcements

Despite no new signings being confirmed yet, United is actively pursuing strategic additions. Talks with Bayern Munich over Matthijs de Ligt and a bid for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite highlight the club’s focus on strengthening their defensive line. “They will, however, need to free up space in their squad and generate transfer fees if they are to significantly improve their squad due to the need to comply with profit and sustainability rules,” pointing to a cautious yet targeted approach in the market.

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New Coaching Staff and Tactical Adjustments

The anticipated addition of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake to the coaching staff suggests a fresh tactical direction under Ten Hag. The infusion of new ideas and strategies from these seasoned professionals could be pivotal in reshaping United’s gameplay. Moreover, the departure of some current staff, including goalkeeping coach Richard Hartis, marks a significant overhaul aimed at revitalizing the team’s dynamic.

Photo IMAGO

Pre-Season Fixtures and Squad Rotation

United’s pre-season schedule is packed, starting with friendlies in Norway and Scotland, followed by a tour in the United States. These matches are not just preparatory; they are a critical platform for Ten Hag to assess the squad depth, especially with many first-team players unavailable due to extended breaks post-international duties. Academy players are expected to fill these gaps, providing them with a valuable opportunity to shine.

Decisions Pending for Other Players

Apart from Greenwood and Sancho, several other players like Jonny Evans and Sofyan Amrabat face uncertain futures at United. With contracts ending or nearing completion, decisions will need to be timely, considering the club’s strategic goals and financial regulations.

As Manchester United strides into the pre-season, the blend of new leadership, pending transfers, and evolving strategies under Erik ten Hag’s extended tenure will be intriguing to follow. Each move and decision will be instrumental in shaping the season ahead, aiming to propel United back to the pinnacle of both domestic and international football.