Manchester United players have returned for the first day of pre-season as preparations for the next campaign gets underway.

With the future of Erik ten Hag agreed, thanks to his contract extension, Manchester United are focusing on a fresh start for the 2024/25 campaign.

A group of Manchester United players returned for the first day of pre-season with Erik ten Hag and his staff.

New assistants Rene Hake and Ruud van Nistelrooy were also at Carrington, while there are not currently any new signings to bolster the numbers.

(EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE)  Manager Erik ten Hag of Manchester United arrives ahead of a first team training session at Carrington Training Ground on Jul...
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images

Manchester United players at Carrington

Manchester United released photographs via club media and explained how the players underwent medical tests on their first day back, before taking part in a training session in the afternoon.

Many players are not present, with the pre-season return described as ‘staggered’.

Numerous players are returning late as they have been involved at Euro 2024 and the Copa America, with the tournaments entering their final week.

Even for those knocked out, they must comply with FIFA-mandated rest period of two weeks before returning to their clubs.

In total, 13 first team squad players were pictured back at Carrington, which is also undergoing renovation work.

Harry Maguire has been working hard at a training camp in Portugal ahead of pre-season, while Mason Mount also shared pictures working out ahead of his return to Carrington.

Notable names missing

Aside from the expected Euro 2024 and Copa America participants, there are a few notable names missing from the list.

One is Tyrell Malacia, described as our ‘biggest mystery’ heading into pre-season after missing the entire 2023/24. He did at least return for the first day last season. This does not appear to be a great start for the injury-hit defender.

Jadon Sancho is not back, avoiding an awkward reunion with Erik ten Hag.

Mason Greenwood was reportedly at Carrington but made a swift exit, following talks on his future with clubs bidding for his services.

There is no Jonny Evans, who has not yet agreed a contract extension, while there was no sign of Donny van de Beek, who is on the verge of a move to Girona.

Related Topics