Manchester United's preseason continues with a true clash of European giants as they face AC Milan in an international friendly. This match will serve as one of their final major tests before the start of the new season. Both teams are going through different processes. United found stability following the arrival of Michael Carrick, while Milan are beginning a new era under Ruben Amorim, who will have an added personal element to this match as he faces the club he managed until January.
What happened?
The match will be an important opportunity to test players, make tactical adjustments, and take a closer look at several new signings. AC Milan's Ruben Amorim is trying to implement his usual three-center-back system, an approach that requires intensity when pressing, speed when recovering the ball, and plenty of coordination when the team loses possession. Amorim will also be without some important players, including Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic, who are sidelined through injury.
Why it matters for Manchester United
The situation at Manchester United is different. Michael Carrick transformed the team following his arrival and guided United to a third-place finish in the Premier League, also securing their return to the Champions League. That positive momentum has continued throughout the summer. United have recorded two wins, two draws, and only one defeat in five friendlies, scoring nine goals and conceding just four.
What comes next?
The match will also provide another important opportunity to evaluate Bryan Mbeumo and other new signings. Bruno Fernandes remains the team's conductor, and much of United's attacking threat will once again run through the Portuguese star. The match will be a crucial test for Manchester United's new signings and tactical adjustments before the start of the new season.
Manchester United's recent form has been impressive, with four wins and one draw in their last five matches, including a 3-0 win over Brighton on May 24. They currently sit 14 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race and have scored 69 goals this season, conceding 50. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 3rd in Premier League, 71 pts, 20W-11D-7L from 38 games, recent form WWDWW.
