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Key Defenders Absent from Pre-Season Tour
With the Premier League season looming, Manchester United’s preparations have hit a snag, as they’ve jetted off to Los Angeles missing key full-backs Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, and Tyrell Malacia. While Aaron Wan-Bissaka is present, United’s intent to offload him adds to their defensive uncertainties.
Extended Breaks and Fitness Woes
Shaw and Dalot are currently on extended breaks following their involvement in the Euros, but concerns hover over Shaw’s fitness, having only recently returned to action since February. Dalot’s consistency last season offers some solace, yet United’s lack of recognised back-up, particularly with Wan-Bissaka’s potential departure, poses a significant challenge.
Interest in Wan-Bissaka and Malacia’s Recovery
Wan-Bissaka, entering the final year of his contract, has caught the attention of West Ham and Galatasaray. Meanwhile, Malacia’s fitness is under the spotlight after two knee operations and no appearances for United since May 2023.
Youth Opportunity as Transfer Speculations Swirl
Manager Erik ten Hag has turned to teenager Sam Murray to fill the left-back role during pre-season, although Murray is yet to debut professionally for the club. Amidst the defensive shuffle, United have eyed Bayern Munich’s Noussair Mazraoui, with a potential £20 million price tag.
Ten Hag’s Position Secure Despite Managerial Rumblings
Erik ten Hag appears to retain his managerial position at Manchester United, yet reports suggest that the club had considered alternatives. From Gareth Southgate, who distanced himself until after Euro 2024, to Kieran McKenna, who stayed with Ipswich, and Roberto De Zerbi, deemed not the right fit, United’s search was extensive. Thomas Frank, Marco Silva, Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Ruben Amorim, and Roberto Martinez were all part of the conversation, with varying degrees of engagement and outcomes.
