Erik ten Hag looking forward to pre-season 'surprises' as Man Utd boss awaits emergence of next Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho

United boss Ten Hag claimed that he is looking forward to new players coming up and turning heroes for the club in the upcoming season just like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho emerged as unlikely stars in the last campaign. Red Devils players, who are not on national team duties, regrouped on Monday as the club began pre-season at Carrington.

Mainoo, in his first full season with the club, appeared in 35 matches across all competitions where he scored five times and provided three assists. Garnacho, on the other hand, established himself as a mainstay in Ten Hag's lineup in the 2023/24 campaign as he played 50 matches across all competitions scoring 10 goals and contributing with five assists. The duo's impressive outings earned them a call-up to their national teams - England and Argentina - for Euro 2024 and Copa America 2024 respectively.

Speaking to reporters, the Dutch coach said, "In every season, after a break, you will have surprises. We're looking forward, we're so curious: who is it this season, the surprise who can contribute to our team? Like last year, Kobbie Mainoo, and Alejandro Garnacho coming up and playing a big role. They are two goalscorers in the (FA Cup) final. Today we started (training), but which player is there who can do the same?"

The reigning FA Cup champions are set to travel to the US later this month where they will play a series of friendly matches against clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool.