The most pressing question hanging over Manchester United this pre-season is what happens to Marcus Rashford. The forward returned to Carrington after a loan spell at Barcelona, has been handed a new number 14 shirt, and has caught the eye in training. Rio Ferdinand described him as being like a purring Ferrari and urged Michael Carrick to keep him, yet the situation remains unresolved. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly blocked transfers to six Premier League clubs, determined to avoid the embarrassment of watching an academy product thrive at a domestic rival. That firm stance leaves Rashford's future in limbo as the new season closes in.
On the pitch, United drew 1-1 with Paris Saint-Germain before drawing 1-1 with Leeds United in their most recent pre-season outing. The results suggest a squad still finding its rhythm, though a 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid earlier in the summer showed genuine attacking intent under Carrick.
In the transfer market, United have already moved decisively in midfield. Youri Tielemans arrived from Aston Villa for £35 million and Andrey Santos joined from Chelsea in a deal worth up to £50 million, pointing to a clear plan to reshape the engine room. Attention has also turned to left-back Lewis Hall, who is pushing for a move from Newcastle despite his club's refusal to sell, and to Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly, with Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand both publicly calling on the club to strengthen before the window closes. Harry Maguire has urged the squad to carry their pre-season momentum into the campaign, and with the Premier League season imminent, Carrick's decisions in the coming days will define United's ambitions for 2026-27.
Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United manager Michael Carrick to keep Marcus Rashford this summer, comparing the winger to a purring Ferrari in pre-season training. The recommendation comes after Rashford returned to Old Trafford with a new number 14 shirt, following a successful loan at Barcelona, as the club weighs up his long-term future.
Myles Lewis-Skelly is facing an uncertain future at Arsenal despite his desire to remain at the club and fight for a starting spot. While the academy graduate has impressed during pre-season, intense competition for places and reported interest from rival Premier League sides Manchester United and Chelsea mean a summer transfer could still be on the cards for the midfielder.
Manchester United's new signing Youri Tielemans has revealed that FIFA’s controversial decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card served as the ultimate motivation for Belgium. The midfielder suggested that the political circus surrounding the USMNT striker’s availability created a sense of injustice that fuelled their dominant knockout victory.
For some football fans, the summer is the part of the calendar that they look forward to the most - and that's not just because it's filled by a World Cup every four years! Rather, it's because the end of the season means only one thing: It's time for transfers! The 2026 window is once again proving to be busy, with some huge names making big-money moves before deadline day on September 1.
Manchester United, often simply referred to as "United," are one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world, based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway depot at Newton Heath. The team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902 and moved to its current home, Old Trafford, in 1910.
Famous players
Manchester United have been home to some of the greatest footballers in history. Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, is arguably the most iconic figure in the club's history. Other legendary players include George Best, known for his flair and skill, and Eric Cantona, who brought a winning mentality to the club during the 1990s. More recent stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes have also contributed significantly to the club's success.
Honours
Manchester United are one of the most decorated clubs in English football, having won a record 20 Premier League titles (formerly the First Division). They have also lifted the FA Cup 12 times, the League Cup five times, and the UEFA Champions League three times. The club's dominance in English football was particularly evident during the 1990s and early 2000s under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Managers
Sir Alex Ferguson is undoubtedly the most successful manager in Manchester United's history. He spent 26 years at the club, leading them to an unprecedented era of success. Before Ferguson, managers like Matt Busby and Wilf McGuinness played crucial roles in shaping the club's identity. More recent managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho, have faced the challenge of maintaining the club's high standards.
Stadium
Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is one of the most famous stadiums in the world. With a capacity of roughly 75,000, it is among the largest football stadiums in the United Kingdom. The stadium has hosted numerous major matches, including UEFA Champions League finals and FIFA World Cup matches.
Location
Manchester United are based in the city of Manchester, which is located in the northwest of England. The club's home ground, Old Trafford, is situated in the Trafford borough. Manchester is a major industrial city with a rich footballing heritage.
Owners
In February 2024, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company, INEOS, acquired a significant 25% stake in Manchester United. This acquisition granted Ratcliffe sporting control over the club, placing him in a position to influence key decisions related to its operations.
Ratcliffe has already made a substantial financial commitment to Manchester United. His large investments demonstrate his dedication to the club's success and his willingness to provide the necessary resources for its growth.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy Manchester United tickets without a membership?
To purchase an official ticket through the club to see Manchester United play at Old Trafford, you must be a member of the club. There are several levels of membership, ranging from adult options to those for juniors, each with additional perks depending on the tier. You can register your interest for the 2026-27 season now.
How can I buy a Manchester United season ticket?
Right now, you cannot purchase season tickets for Manchester United's 2026-27 Premier League campaign, as they are renewed and sold at the end of the previous season. You can sign up for the club's waiting list for the chance to purchase one when availability arises for a future campaign. You can also purchase tickets from secondary markets like StubHub.
What is the best way to travel to Old Trafford?
The best way to travel to Old Trafford is by public transport, with multiple Metrolink stops offering access to the ground. Old Trafford station is a five-minute walk away and offers wheelchair-friendly access, with Imperial War Museum and Wharfside also a short stroll away. Manchester Piccadilly, the city's main railway hub, is over an hour's walk from the ground.
How to buy cheap Manchester United tickets?
The best way to buy cheap tickets is through the club's official website, looking for the more affordable sections of Old Trafford. There are no specific discount codes, with prices set ahead of the season across all competitions, though seniors, children, and young adults pay less than full price.