It’s been a good start to life at Manchester United under Erik ten Hag, with the new manager winning all three of his pre-season friendlies so far.
It began with a convincing 4-0 victory over Liverpool in Bangkok, followed by a double header against Melbourne Victory and Crystal Palace, where United again recorded wins.
But it’s not just the scorelines which have been impressive, the Red Devils have played with a freedom and dynamism that wasn’t seen in the 2021/22 campaign.
United have scored 10 goals across the three games and have pressed from the front and moved the ball quickly in possession.
Therefore, it’s no surprise that several players have enhanced their reputation and chances of starting in United’s season opener against Brighton & Hove Albion.
We’ve picked out a few players who have starred so far in pre-season…
1. Diogo Dalot
Ten Hag’s offensive tactics suit the attack-minded full-back, who has been involved in the build-up play to a number of goals and assisted Anthony Martial’s opener against Palace.
2. Harry Maguire
The defender missed the win over Liverpool but has featured in the two games since. The captain was solid against Palace and made a goal-saving block in the first half.
3. Victor Lindelof
Has started all three games and made a good claim to begin the season at the heart of defence, despite the arrival of Lisandro Martinez. Lindelof’s long-range passes to full-backs have stood out so far.
4. Zidane Iqbal
Little was known of the youth-team player prior to this summer, but Iqbal has made a big impression in the friendlies. The midfielder has come off the bench in all three and has looked sharp, physical and rarely wastes a pass.