Full Breakdown
Manchester United Pre-Season Review: Results, Transfers, Injuries and Rashford’s Future
7/26/2026, 8:05:06 PM
Pre-Season Results and Upcoming Fixtures
United opened their 2026-27 preparations with a 5-0 win over Rosenborg in Trondheim, Norway. Four more friendlies are scheduled in Sweden, Ireland and Poland against Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Leeds United and AC Milan before the Premier League resumes.
Transfer Activity and Squad Balance
In the 2025-26 window United added five players for notable fees. Defensive midfielder Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea for £48 million plus £2 million in add-ons; despite no Premier League experience, his off-ball reading is praised. Belgium captain Youri Tielemans, 29, joined from Aston Villa after United triggered his release clause, offering creativity in midfield. The club also saw the departure of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, a key player and top earner. Potential targets such as Ederson (Atalanta) were dropped after a medical issue, while interest remains in left-back Lewis Hall (Newcastle) and Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, whose high wages and fee are cited as barriers.
Injury Updates
Midfielder Benjamin Sesko, the 23-year-old Slovenian striker who impressed in his debut season, has returned to training after injury, appearing bulkier but expected to slim down for full duties. Left-back Luke Shaw, 31, is on a new contract after a season of injuries but played more games than any teammate last term. Goalkeeper Radek Vitek, 22, is listed for sale despite low market values for Championship keepers. Defender Lisandro Martínez’s World Cup-final injury is described as non-serious, and he should be fit for the season start.
Marcus Rashford’s Contract Situation
Rashford’s loan to Barcelona ended when the club declined to activate a €30 million purchase option that expired on June 15. With his wages among the highest in football and limited external offers, United’s management, led by Michael Carrick, appears inclined to keep him, and his return to the first-team squad is described as increasingly likely.
Outlook for the Campaign
United’s pre-season displays suggest strong attacking potential, highlighted by contributions from Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes and emerging academy players such as Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven. The club stresses the need for financial discipline and smarter player sales to fund future signings, especially as Champions League participation returns. The blend of new midfield signings, recovering injuries and a stable managerial situation under Carrick sets the stage for a season that will test the squad’s depth across domestic and European competitions.
