Key information from Man Utd’s pre-season preparations

Manchester United’s return to training marks a crucial phase as Erik ten Hag’s side prepare for the 2024-25 season. With new managerial appointments and a busy transfer window, the focus at Old Trafford is on restructuring and strengthening.

Key changes in the management team and extended term of office of Ten Hag

July brings a fresh start for United, with Dan Ashworth taking over as new Sporting Director and Christopher Vivell taking over as Interim Director of Global Talent. Significantly, Erik ten Hag’s managerial tenure has been extended until 2026 following a successful review. This continuity in leadership is key as United deal with the squad changes and strategic signings required to strengthen the squad.

Mason Greenwood and Jadon Sancho: Futures up in the air

Mason Greenwood returns to United from a loan spell at Getafe, but his future remains uncertain. Despite scoring 10 goals last season, his involvement at the club is the subject of speculation. “Greenwood is likely to be given additional time off as the club continues to work to secure a possible sale,” with Marseille and Lazio showing strong interest. The young striker’s spell at United appears to be heading towards a permanent exit.

On the other hand, Jadon Sancho is set to return to Carrington after his spell at Borussia Dortmund. Relations between Sancho and Ten Hag are, to put it mildly, strained. Sancho’s criticism of managerial decisions and his subsequent isolation from the team have created a rift that may not be easily healed. With United open to offers for him at the start of the transfer window, his future also hangs in the balance.

Transfer window dynamics and defensive reinforcements

While no new signings have been confirmed, United are actively pursuing strategic additions. Talks with Bayern Munich over Matthijs de Ligt and a bid for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite underline the club’s focus on strengthening their defensive line. “However, they will need to free up space in their squad and generate transfer fees if they are to significantly improve their squad in terms of profitability and sustainability,” indicating a cautious but targeted approach to the market.

New coaching staff and tactical changes

The expected additions of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake to the coaching staff suggest a fresh tactical direction under Ten Hag. Injecting new ideas and strategies from these seasoned professionals could be key to changing United’s game. In addition, the departure of some of the current staff, including goalkeeping coach Richard Hartis, means a significant overhaul aimed at revitalising the team’s dynamics.

Pre-season games and squad rotation

United’s pre-season schedule is packed, starting with friendlies in Norway and Scotland, followed by a tour of the United States. These games aren’t just preparation; they’re a critical platform for Ten Hag to assess squad depth, especially with a number of first-team players unavailable due to long lay-offs after international duty. The academy players will be expected to fill those gaps, providing them with a valuable opportunity to shine.

Decisions pending for other players

In addition to Greenwood and Sancho, several other players, such as Jonny Evans and Sofyan Amrabat, have uncertain futures at United. With contracts expiring or close to completion, decisions will need to be made in a timely manner, taking into account the club’s strategic goals and financial regulations.

As Manchester United enter pre-season, the combination of new management, pending transfers and evolving strategies under Erik ten Hag’s extended spell in charge will be intriguing. Every move and decision will be crucial in shaping the coming season as United aim to return to the top of both domestic and international football.