United View: All-star start in United US tour

Manchester United began their US pre-season tour with an encouraging 2-1 win over West Ham in New Jersey. There were several positives for the Reds, including their sharpness, physicality and another promising performance from Matheus Cunha.

Ruben Amorim’s side almost opened the scoring within the first minute when Rasmus Hojlund burst past Max Kilman before seeing his effort crash off Alphonse Areola’s post.

However, after five minutes, they were ahead when Ayden Heaven was brought down by Areola, who attempted to make up for accidentally dropping the ball. Bruno Fernandes then stepped up to convert from the spot.

He would then double United’s lead in the second half, before Jarrod Bowen pulled one back for the Hammers, before United made eleven changes.

Despite being seen as a midfield option, Fernandes was used as a right-sided forward, with Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte occupying the midfield, who both impressed as Ruben Amorim attempts to find the perfect balance with his squad.

Ugarte, in particular, caught the eye, providing physicality off the ball, exemplified when he stole the ball off Guido Rodriguez, nutmegged James Ward-Prowse before slotting in Amad to finish, who was marginally offside.

After a season of settling in, Ugarte looks poised for an improved campaign. The same can be said of Patrick Dorgu, who linked up well with new signing Cunha on several occasions against West Ham at left wing back.

Fernandes and Cunha would often drop deep to aid in the build-up, with the latter displaying his impressive ball-carrying skills, collecting the ball and gliding past players. The Brazilian already looks to be a big personality off the pitch, too, seen laughing and engaging with many of his new teammates.

Playing for United comes with expectations, but it’s something the Brazilian relishes, saying, “It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world, and when Ruben came to me and showed me the project, I felt like it’s a challenge I want to do for my career. United is a club I needed to be at, and like I say, it’s a big privilege.”

Amorim has spoke about the importance of bringing in players who want to play for Manchester United – especially as he seeks to shift the culture at Old Trafford. Both Cunha and Mbeumo turned down interest from Champions League clubs to join the Reds, something crucial to Amorim’s long-term vision.

The duo’s arrival has undoubtedly helped lift the mood at the club, with Amorim extremely happy to have both in the squad for his first pre-season with the club.

The Portuguese manager originally wanted to join United at this time last season, but was persuaded to join mid-season, leading to a 15th-place finish in the Premier League. However, Amorim has gone on to say he was grateful for this difficult period, as he now has a better understanding of his squad.

Mbeumo was absent from the matchday squad and will likely be unavailable until United’s final game against Everton due to being behind in fitness. Although fans will be excited to see the Cameroon international in a United shirt, there isn’t much point risking their £65million signing, especially at MetLife Stadium’s pitch, which has come under scrutiny from coaches and players.

With the benefit of playing Premier League opposition before the regular season begins, United will get a decent idea of how their ideas will translate on the pitch, although a true number nine remains a priority if they are to push for a Champions League position.

Interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško has now picked up, with United reportedly approaching the Slovenian’s camp about a potential move to Old Trafford, although the Reds will have competition from Newcastle for his signature.