Erik ten Hag will take one last look at his squad in pre-season games against Lens and Athletic Club later this weekend
Manchester United are set to conclude their pre-season campaign with a double game against Lens and Athletic Club this weekend.
Erik ten Hag will have one last chance to take a look at his players ahead of the Premier League restart on August 14 against Wolves. For some members of the United squad whose future is uncertain, this could be their last audition before the new season.
Manchester United already have two newcomers, with Rasmus Hojlund set to score a hat-trick with his upcoming transfer from Atalanta. Other additions will likely have to be offset by expenses. Ten Hag has some players in mind he would like to fire while others are halfway there, either reliable first-team players or expendable players without adequate replacements. For these players, this final pre-season opportunity is a chance to change that perception.
Harry Maguire is the subject of transfer interest from Wes Ham United. The Reds turned down a £20million offer for his services at the start of the slot and there were no further offers.
The Englishman has lost the captaincy and is now fourth in the central defender pecking order, with Luke Shaw also likely ahead of him. However, with more competitions to compete in and a tight player list, Ten Hag is happy to fight for his place.
The weekend offers Maguire another chance to try and prove the doubters wrong and show why United should not consider further offers. It’s not alone.
Fred is one who has been largely inclined to leave Old Trafford, but Fulham, his most likely destination, have yet to formalize their interest with an offer. The same can be said for Scott McTominay, who is more likely to stay, with West Ham once again lurking. If the Brazilian wants to continue his time at Old Trafford and move up the hierarchy, this is his chance. Kobbie Mainoo’s injury casts doubt on a sale for the doubles midfielder as United are keen not to undersell.
Up front, Anthony Martial has one last chance to show that he can be a key player for Ten Hag. The Frenchman is needed to ease Hojlund’s transition from Serie A to the Premier League.
The frequency of its involvement depends on its form and availability. Martial showed he was capable of being reliable, but it was only sporadic and a general exception to the rule during his eight-year spell at Old Trafford.
When it comes to loan exits, Alvaro Fernandez has impressed United fans during pre-season. However, with Shaw and Tyrell Malacia ahead of them in the pecking order, United must weigh the best decision for their development this year.
