Manchester United’s Pre-Season Schedule Sparks Concerns Over Player Workload
Manchester United will embark on a post-season tour to Asia, sparking concerns over the workload of their elite players. According to a report by BBC Sport, the Red Devils will take on ASEAN All Stars in Kuala Lumpur on 28 May before travelling to play Hong Kong two days later.
The trip has been defended by the club’s manager, Erik ten Hag, who has described it as a “small sacrifice” that allows the club to “make contact with our fans around the world.” However, some players have expressed concerns over the increased workload. Defender Harry Maguire has said: “It is the club’s decision and we don’t have any right to argue against it after the performances we have put on. As players, we have to take responsibility for the position in the Premier League and the money we have generated this season through that finish, which is nowhere near good enough.”
The post-season trip is just one part of a busy schedule for Manchester United, who will also participate in a pre-season tournament in the US between 26 July and 3 August. They will face Leeds United in a friendly match in Sweden on 19 July, before taking on Fiorentina at home on 9 August. BBC Sport has learned that several players, including Andre Onana, Harry Maguire, and Diogo Dalot, will also participate in a meet and greet event in Mumbai, India on 29 May.
The increased workload on elite players has been a topic of discussion this season, with all three European club competitions expanded and Fifa’s revamped Club World Cup starting next month in the US. Former Manchester City defender Michael Brown has spoken out against the trend, telling BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily podcast: “At the end of the season, you walk around the pitch and you get that feeling of ‘I’m done, I’m finished’ and you want to go and put your feet up and have the mental rest before the international games. You look forward to the break. I understand why they want to do it financially, but it shouldn’t be allowed.”
Manchester United’s financial situation is a major concern, with the club losing more than £370m over the past five years. The team finished sixth in the Premier League, missing out on European football for next season and leaving a £100m hole in the club’s finances. BBC Sport has reported that United have told some staff working at their Carrington training ground that they will lose their jobs, in the second round of redundancies since Sir Jim Ratcliffe bought into the club last year.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson has also weighed in on the debate, saying: “Not a single one of those players will want to go, but they are commercially obliged to go in their contracts.” As Manchester United prepares for their post-season tour, it remains to be seen how the players will cope with the increased workload and the impact it will have on their performance next season. According to BBC Sport, the club’s sponsors, including Apollo Tyres, are keen to capitalize on the opportunity to engage with fans and promote their brand.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s pre-season schedule has sparked concerns over player workload, with many questioning the wisdom of the post-season tour to Asia. While the club argues that the trip is necessary to generate revenue and connect with fans, others believe that it is a “small sacrifice” that may have long-term consequences for the team’s performance. As the new season approaches, Manchester United will need to balance their commercial obligations with the needs of their players to ensure success on the pitch.
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