Manchester United’s latest preseason outing against Leeds United served as a stark reminder of the areas that require urgent attention. A goalless draw might seem trivial in the grand scheme, but it underscores fundamental issues that need addressing before competitive fixtures commence. The most glaring problem, as admitted by manager Ruben Amorim, is the team’s lack of pace—an Achilles’ heel that hampers their ability to break down resilient defenses and transition effectively from defense to attack. United’s offensive output last season was already underwhelming, with only 44 league goals—numbers that reflect a team struggling to generate consistent danger in the final third.
Watching the match, it became evident that creative firepower and tempo are missing rubies in United’s crown. The debut of new signing Matheus Cunha, a €62.5 million investment from Wolves, sparked some cautious optimism. Cunha’s role as an attacking midfielder was intended to energize United’s attack, yet the connection with teammates, notably Bruno Fernandes, remains underdeveloped. Amorim’s comments suggest a belief that Cunha’s aggressive movement between the lines will eventually flourish, especially with the addition of other dynamic players like Mason Mount or Kobbie Mainoo, who could help unlock defenses with their agility and vision.
However, the core issue persists: United’s personnel choices and tactical setup seem to lack the necessary speed and fluidity. Amorim explicitly noted the need to enhance “the speed of the game” and emphasized that their current style struggles to reliably produce goals. These shortcomings threaten to undermine any pre-season optimism, prompting the question—how quickly can United bridge this chasm between intent and execution?
Strategic Changes: The Role of Reinforcements and Team Morale
The impending arrival of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford may prove pivotal. His ability to inject pace and unpredictability offers a ray of hope that United can accelerate their attacking recovery. The front office’s willingness to recruit players specifically for their speed and versatility indicates a strategic shift motivated by the recognition that the current squad falls short in this regard.
Meanwhile, amidst the transfer rumors, Marcus Rashford’s uncertain future hangs in the balance, linked with a potential move to Barcelona. Such speculation underscores the importance of stability and clarity within the squad, yet Amorim remains optimistic about team cohesion. He highlighted that, despite the noise around player departures, the morale is strong and united in their resolve to improve. Such mental fortitude is crucial, especially considering the turbulent nature of summer transfers and the inevitable disruption they can cause. Maintaining team spirit through these transitional phases is far from trivial; it requires strong leadership and clear communication—areas where United must excel if they hope to turn their preseason struggles into tactical gains.
What stands out, however, is Amorim’s acknowledgment of the gap between effort and quality. While the players appear motivated, the tangible execution—particularly in the final third—must evolve rapidly. The coming weeks will be instrumental in fine-tuning connections, building chemistry, and ramping up the tempo ahead of the season.
Looking Forward: Preseason as an Ideation Phase
United’s upcoming fixtures in the United States, featuring matches against West Ham, Bournemouth, and Everton, will be critical testing grounds. These games are more than just routines—they are opportunities for the squad to forge bonds, establish tactical patterns, and build the necessary urgency. The importance of cohesion cannot be overstated; Amorim’s focus on creating the right environment signals an understanding that collective harmony often precedes on-field success.
Additionally, their final preseason encounter against Fiorentina at Old Trafford will serve as a barometer of progress. It’s during these matches that experimental combinations can be tested, and players can demonstrate improved understanding and execution of the team’s vision.
If Manchester United is to reborn as a thriving powerhouse, the emphasis must shift from effort to quality—a relentless pursuit of balls in the net and a swift, incisive style of play. The stage is set for a season of transformation, but only if the club leverages preseason as a moment of honest self-assessment, strategic reinforcements, and unwavering mental resilience.