Manchester United have announced a 25-man squad for their pre-season friendly against Wrexham, but two new signings have missed out on selection. The Red Devils began their preparations for the 2026/27 season this week, with first-team players returning to training after the summer break.
Pre-Season Friendly Against Wrexham
United will face Wrexham in a pre-season friendly, though the specific date and venue have not yet been disclosed. The squad includes a mix of senior players and emerging talents, with those who were not involved in the World Cup getting an early start to their pre-season training.
The club ended the 2025/26 campaign on a high, finishing third in the Premier League and securing qualification for next season's Champions League. Manager Erik ten Hag will be looking to build on that success as he prepares his team for the new campaign.
New Signings Miss Out
Two of United's recent acquisitions have been omitted from the squad for the Wrexham friendly. The club did not provide specific reasons for their absence, but it is believed that the players may not yet be fully integrated into the squad or are being given additional time to settle in after their transfers.
These new signings were expected to bolster United's squad for the upcoming season, but their absence from the pre-season opener suggests they may be introduced gradually. Fans will be eager to see them in action as the pre-season progresses.
Returning Players and Youth Prospects
The 25-man squad includes several first-team regulars who were not involved in international duty during the World Cup. Among them are key defenders, midfielders, and forwards who will be crucial to United's ambitions this season.
Additionally, a number of academy graduates and young prospects have been included, giving them an opportunity to impress the coaching staff during pre-season. This aligns with United's tradition of promoting youth talent and integrating them into the first-team setup.
Champions League Ambitions
Having secured a top-four finish last season, United are now focused on making an impact in the Champions League. The pre-season friendlies, including the match against Wrexham, will be vital for building fitness, tactical cohesion, and team spirit ahead of the competitive fixtures.
Manager Erik ten Hag has emphasized the importance of a strong pre-season to lay the foundations for a successful campaign. With the squad announced, attention now turns to the upcoming friendly and the continued integration of new signings.
