Manchester United have travelled over to the United States of America for their pre-season tour, during which they will play a host of other big names in the International Champions Cup. Jose Mourinho’s men will pit their wits against giants of the game in the shape of Milan, Liverpool and Real Madrid, so it’s barely an understated warm-up schedule.
Still, with the World Cup dominating summer headlines, Mourinho’s squad is somewhat depleted for this money-spinning tour. Many of the Red Devils’ biggest players won’t be around for a while following their exploits out in Russia and, while that isn’t ideal, it’s something that affords some of the players on the periphery of Mourinho’s thinking a chance to shine.
The Portuguese has often been accused of being rigid in his approach to utilising players on the periphery of his side, as well as young talent, so this early tour is a chance for the self-proclaimed ‘Special One’ to really prove his doubters wrong on that front.
With that in mind, here’s a look at some of the players who might go a long way into changing Mourinho’s thinking.
Juan Mata has actually played under Mourinho a fair amount during the last two years, though took a backseat towards the end of the campaign. However, with Alexis Sanchez unable to join up with the rest of the squad right away, the Spaniard may get a chance in a creative role while across the pond.
A wonderful player, the former Chelsea man can still have a big impact this season as United battle on a number of fronts, so getting up to speed as quickly as possible can only be a good thing.
Scott McTominay’s progression through the United ranks certainly was a quick one last season. The Scotland international become a pivotal part of United’s midfield under Mourinho’s watch, though will need to continue to prove himself. Indeed, the signing of Fred may push him further down the pecking order at Old Trafford, so at least a big showing in the States will keep in Mourinho’s mind.
United have a proud history of relying on youth products and it’s up to McTominay to keep himself in the squad.
With so much excitement surrounding the England team right now, a big season for Angel Gomes could push him into Gareth Southgate’s reckoning. The young forward is highly regarded at the Theatre of Dreams and, despite the vast array of attacking options at Old Trafford, could certainly prove to be an ace in the pack during 2018/19.
Marcus Rashford has certainly done well for himself since bursting onto the scene and Gomes has the natural ability to do exactly the same.
