Pre-season is an ideal opportunity for young players to break into the first team.
Manchester United’s pre-season tours have often been an opportunity for players to showcase their talents to their manager.
In 2022, Anthony Martial was the big winner from the tour having shown he was more than capable of playing in the centre forward role when called upon. Unfortunately for the Frenchman, injuries have once again curbed his momentum and prevented him from becoming Erik ten Hag’s main striker.
However, the 2023 tour of the US will provide fresh opportunities for the United squad and three youngsters in particular could be well placed to capitalise. MEN Sport has taken a look at a trio of Reds players who could be set for a breakout summer.
Facundo Pellistri
United supporters are finally seeing the potential which brought Pellistri to Old Trafford in 2020. Since the turn of the year, the Uruguayan has slowly managed to gain more minutes and has excelled. The 21-year-old made his first start for United in the 1-0 victory at Real Betis and appears well positioned for more opportunities with Alejandro Garnacho injured. The summer could allow Pellistri to push on further and show why he deserves to be starting regularly next term.
Amad
Currently on loan at Sunderland, Amad departed for the Stadium of Light with his United career seemingly hanging in the balance. Having been dropped into the U21s for one match following a poor start to his time in the North East, the Ivorian looked to be drifting somewhat. But to his credit he has turned his form around and become an integral part of Tony Mowbray’s team. Upon his return to Carrington, Amad will be hoping to prove his future lies with United and not out on loan.
Hannibal Mejbri
Similarly to Amad, Hannibal is currently on loan in the Championship with Birmingham City. While there is still a lot for him to learn, what is clear is how much he has thrived with the Blues. He has grown as a player and shone in a struggling side. The Tunisian was a part of his country’s World Cup squad and, while his game time was limited, the experience can only have been a positive. With midfield being an area of opportunity at Old Trafford, the 20-year-old will be targeting a spot in next season’s United squad.
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