Manchester United’s Pre-Season Struggles Highlight Concerns Ahead of New Campaign

Manchester United‘s recent defeat to Liverpool in a pre-season match has left fans feeling uneasy. The team went down 3-0 in a game that seemed to echo past problems, as defensive injuries and missed scoring opportunities reared their heads once again.

Despite some positives from their U.S. tour, including Erik Ten Hag’s contract extension and hopes for a better squad, this match raised red flags for United supporters. On a warm evening in South Carolina, it was only Marcus Rashford who showed any attacking flair, almost scoring with a stunning turn and shot that just missed the target.

Casemiro, who played the entire match, struggled on the field, appearing slow and exposed. Meanwhile, both Jadon Sancho and Antony were lackluster, unable to make an impact as Scott McTominay missed the team’s best chance in the second half.

With Rasmus Hojlund sidelined, new striker Joshua Zirkzee is under pressure to gel with Rashford and Bruno Fernandes quickly. On the defensive front, Ten Hag claimed there are plenty of options, but once again, the team faltered as Harry Maguire sat out, and both Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof came off at halftime due to concerns. Aaron Wan-Bissaka also had to leave the field with an injury.

Defensive players like Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, and Diego Dalot are expected to return to training next week, and they may be needed sooner rather than later as United faces Manchester City in the Community Shield this weekend.

On the other hand, Liverpool’s pre-season tour has seen them achieve three wins against top teams. Now, head coach Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes face some tough decisions regarding the squad’s future. With players like Joe Gomez and Sepp van den Berg available for transfer, the club needs to think about who can make the cut.

Fans are also speculating about potential new signings, including the interest in Anthony Gordon. Slot must determine if the current midfielders can effectively work within his system, as well as if they need to find a replacement for Virgil van Dijk.

As for scheduling, Manchester United will kick off their Premier League season with a home game against Fulham and will be up against Liverpool in an early season derby. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s new head coach will lead the team against Ipswich Town in the first match of the season.