Manchester United are set to jet off on their pre-season tour next month and there could be opportunities for some young players to impress.
Manchester United’s pre-season is fast approaching, and the Reds will be aiming to bounce back after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign.
Ruben Amorim’s squad is set to report back to Carrington in early July, kicking off their preparations with a friendly against Leeds in Sweden on 19 July.
They’ll then head to the United States for three matches before returning to Old Trafford for one final warm-up game ahead of their Premier League opener against Arsenal.
While the full first-team squad is set to be present on the tour as there are no international competitions over the summer, a handful of youth talents are also set to get the opportunity to impress.
Lacey deserves spot on United tour
United have the unique opportunity of playing two post-season friendlies shortly after the 2024/25 campaign concluded. While this seemed like more of a burden for the senior players, it was a great opportunity for some younger players to audition ahead of the pre-season selection.
Shea Lacey was a surprise name on that tour, not due to his ability but instead his fitness after spending much of the season out with injury.
The tricky winger did not play much in Asia but made a major impression, particularly in the second game, and many would argue that he earned his spot on the plane to the United States.
Lacey has been highly-rated within the club for several years but injuries have impacted his development in the last 12 months. He was starting to train with the first-team at 16 and the club have been treating him carefully as he returned to full fitness at the back-end of last season.
Lacey could help solve Amorim’s issue
One of the issues which Amorim may face next season is the lack of depth on the right-hand side for when players head off to the Africa Cup of Nations in December.
Amad and Bryan Mbeumo are likely going to be the first-choice options at right wingback and right-sided no.10, but both could miss up to six games at AFCON.
While the likes of Diogo Dalot and Mason Mount could come into those positions, there is not much depth beyond them and injuries could always come into play for United.
If Lacey can prove himself during pre-season, there is no reason why he cannot offer that extra depth in the first-team squad, similarly to Harry Amass at left wingback.
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The teenager looks like he would suit the right-sided no.10 role perfectly and after impressing on the post-season tour, he is certainly one to watch over the summer.
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