Five players could return to team for Man United’s next pre-season game vs Rangers, one makes the fixture must-watch
A youthful and under-strength Manchester United squad suffered a 0-1 defeat against Rosenborg in Norway, marking a disappointing start to their pre-season campaign.
The team that traveled to Norway featured only five players from the senior squad: Mason Mount, Marcus Rashford, Casemiro, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Jonny Evans. Out of these, Rashford is the sole regular starter, which significantly contributed to the team’s lackluster performance. Moreover, Rosenborg’s match fitness, being in the middle of their league season, further highlighted United’s disjointed display.
As the pre-season advances, more players are expected to return from their extended holidays following international commitments, which should bolster the squad. The outlook is already more promising for their next fixture against Rangers on July 20. Here are five players anticipated to rejoin the team for the match in Scotland:
### Scott McTominay
Scott McTominay is set to return to the team on July 17. With two days of training under his belt, he is likely to feature in the game against Rangers. His early return is due to Scotland’s early exit from the Euros at the group stage, allowing him a shorter holiday compared to others whose national teams progressed further. Eager to make an impact in his home country, McTominay will be driven to prove his worth, especially with new midfield signings expected in the transfer window.
### Harry Maguire
Harry Maguire, like McTominay, is eager to reaffirm his value to the team. Both players were close to being sold to West Ham United last season but made strong comebacks. Maguire has worked diligently to recover from the injury that kept him out of the Euros. Following intensive fitness sessions at Carrington, he is poised to return, likely playing around 45 minutes as he eases back into action.
### Jadon Sancho
Jadon Sancho’s return is highly anticipated, making the upcoming game against Rangers a must-watch. The decision to reintegrate Sancho has divided fans, but given that no club met United’s valuation for him, keeping him was the pragmatic choice. Sancho, who has been on an individual fitness program, is expected to start reintegrating with the squad. His role in the team, potentially as a False 9 as he was used in last pre-season, might also provide clues about the club’s transfer strategy.
### Andre Onana
Andre Onana’s absence against Rosenborg was unexpected as he joined the individual fitness group alongside Sancho. In his stead, Radek Vitek delivered an impressive goalkeeping performance to limit the damage in Norway. Onana, United’s first-choice goalkeeper, is expected to play 45 minutes against Rangers, with Vitek covering the other half. Observing Onana’s playing style under the new goalkeeping coach, Jelle ten Rouwelaar, will be intriguing.
### Antony
The final spot could have gone to either Antony or Amad, both of whom missed the Rosenborg game to focus on their fitness. It’s possible that both players will return and split the game time. However, Antony seems to be the preferred option on the right wing. His return will likely end the experimental use of youngsters Ethan Williams and Ethan Ennis on the flanks, especially with Sancho also coming back. This scenario leaves Ten Hag with limited opportunities to field youth prospects in wide positions.
As the pre-season unfolds, the return of these key players is expected to strengthen Manchester United, providing a more robust and cohesive squad for the challenges ahead.
