Man United Stumble Again: Key Concerns Emerge from Lackluster Friendly Debut
Manchester United struggled to secure a scoreless stalemate against bitter rivals Leeds United in their inaugural pre-season match of the summer campaign on Saturday.
Both teams wore their newly revealed away kits at Stockholm's Strawberry Arena, though it was Leeds in blue who showed slightly more promise in the early stages of this subdued encounter. A swift cross that swept across Altay Bayındır's goalmouth represented the nearest either team came to scoring in the initial exchanges, with newcomer Lukas Nmecha almost converting from close range.
United academy product Chido Obi registered the match's first attempt on goal shortly past the thirty-minute mark, though his hopeful strike was comfortably handled by Karl Darlow, while Casemiro's deflected shot struck the woodwork during first-half injury time as Ruben Amorim's team began to establish rhythm.
Similar to the opening period, Leeds displayed greater energy at the start of the second half. Jayden Bogle's attacking forays had troubled United before the interval, and another determined surge from the full-back forced half-time replacement Tom Heaton into action. The ensuing corner saw Ao Tanaka fire narrowly wide of the target.
The experienced shot-stopper proved crucial once more minutes later as Leeds carved open their opponents. Former United attacker Largie Ramazani found himself alone against Heaton, but the 39-year-old positioned himself well to preserve the deadlock.
Patrick Dorgu made a half-hearted penalty appeal in the final ten minutes after a clumsy tackle from Sam Chambers inside the box, but the official allowed play to continue, with the Danish player quickly recovering to challenge Illan Meslier.
United delayed until the final moments to create their clearest chance as a dead-ball situation caused havoc in Leeds' penalty area. Kobbie Mainoo's header struck the crossbar before Ayden Heaven's follow-up was spectacularly blocked, leaving the Red Devils without a goal in Stockholm.
Matheus Cunha & Diego León Make Debuts
United's summer signings Matheus Cunha and Diego León both received starting positions from Amorim against Leeds, with Cunha deployed as the left inside forward and León as the left wing-back in the Portuguese coach's 3-4-2-1 formation.
For Cunha, it proved a rather disappointing introduction to his Red Devils career. The Brazilian saw limited involvement during a lackluster opening half, recording only 25 touches and rarely finding dangerous areas. He showed glimpses during his 45-minute appearance, with some clever touches and dynamic runs troubling Leeds, though he couldn't create decisive moments in attack—a problem shared by his teammates.
León also demonstrated promise when on the ball and made several impressive runs along the left flank. The Paraguayan even created Obi's sole first-half shot on target, but appeared less assured defensively. Leeds' most threatening attacks came down his side as he found it difficult to handle Wilfried Gnonto's pace and skill.
Attacking Frustrations
While pre-season results hold minimal significance, performances can provide glimpses of future prospects. United fans will undoubtedly hope for marked improvements in forthcoming friendlies that might suggest a successful 2025–26 season ahead.
United delivered a disappointing display on Saturday, especially in attack. They struggled to create meaningful chances and their build-up play appeared worryingly slow and ineffective—characteristics that plagued the underperforming Red Devils throughout last season.
Only in the closing ten minutes did United begin to take more risks, generating some of their most promising moments while seeking a late victory. Patrick Dorgu threatened and Kobbie Mainoo hit the frame, but it remained a troubling overall showing from United's attacking players.
Ruben Amorim Snubs Youth
Pre-season represents an ideal chance to give academy prospects opportunities, yet Amorim chose not to utilize several of his traveling young stars. While more experienced youngsters like Obi, Toby Collyer and Tyler Fredricson received playing time, four teenagers remained unused despite United's lack of creativity.
Godwill Kukonki, Reece Munro, Sékou Koné and Ethan Williams were all overlooked for even brief appearances, while promising talent Jack Fletcher only entered in the 80th minute. With United unlikely to bring a large squad to the United States for the Premier League Summer Series, Amorim may have missed a valuable chance to evaluate some of the club's brightest young prospects.