Wan-Bissaka: His road to signing for United

Aaron Wan-Bissaka took to Premier League life like a duck to water at Crystal Palace.

It barely mattered that he was still a rookie in the right-back position, having spent much of his time in the Eagles’ Academy operating further up the flank or even as a forward.

Palace coach Kevin Keen suggested him as an option in defence when they had a training game and he marked ex-Reds winger Wilfried Zaha so well, the experiment continued.

Even if he never saw himself as a defender back then, Wan-Bissaka displayed great application and soon looked a natural in the role. Described as “dogged and determined” by Roy Hodgson, and a “cool customer” by Under-23s coach Richard Shaw, the youngster never looked back after making his debut against Tottenham Hotspur in February 2018.

An excellent performance against United soon followed, deputising for Tim Fosu-Mensah when the Dutchman was ineligible due to the terms of his loan move, and he deservedly won the club’s Young Player of the Year award in the 2017/18 campaign.

A year later, he picked up the senior prize after a stellar season for the south Londoners, registering outstanding statistics. Indeed, he outperformed every other Premier League full-back for clearances, tackles won, tackle success-rate, take-ons and interceptions. The speculation surrounding his future had, by then, already started with United reckoned to be long-time suitors.

Involvement in the Under-21 European Championship with England meant any move would have to be on hold.

He had initially represented Congo, where his father was born, at Under-20 level in a friendly against England’s Under-17s at St George’s Park, but has since been successfully integrated into the Three Lions' set-up.

A deal with United was concluded following England’s exit from the finals in Italy and San Marino, enabling Wan-Bissaka to sign on the dotted line before recharging his batteries on holiday ahead of linking up with his new colleagues later this summer.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka: His first interview at United

It's official! Aaron Wan-Bissaka is now a Manchester United player.

The England Under-21 international has completed his move from Crystal Palace, becoming Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's second signing of the summer transfer window following the arrival of Wales winger Daniel James from Swansea City earlier this month.

Aaron will wear the no.29 shirt for the Reds - the same number he wore at his former club Palace.

We sat down with the 21-year-old full-back at the Aon Training Complex for an exclusive first interview, in which he describes his feelings about moving to Old Trafford, discusses his development to date, explains his experience of playing against United and gives a message to the supporters.

Aaron, the deal is done! How does it feel to sign for Manchester United?

“Yeah I am excited to have finally signed for this team. Every kid wants to play for a team like this. I am grateful and it is an honour to represent this club. I think I will improve every step and learn different things around new team-mates. I think Man United is a big club, a big family, a big fan base, and I think they all stick together and are so tight together.”

A lot of people are very proud of your achievements in your young career so far and particularly your family. How happy are you that they can be part of this today?

“Yeah I am really happy. I can see that I have made them proud with this decision and where I have come from, how the journey started, and that makes me kick on and carry on. We stick together and we make decisions on everything. I personally think they know what is right for me and that is the decision I will make. It’s a good moment, especially for where we have come from, you know this tough journey up until now. It’s a good feeling.”

How did you transition from being a winger to one of the most highly-rated full-backs in England?

“I think it started with a formation really, you know with wing-backs, and I was playing on the wing back then but we had to play with wing-backs so that is how I got used to it and got the feel of it. From that I enjoyed it and that is how it really all got started.”

When you were growing up, what sort of things were you trying to develop in your game and were there any players in particular you looked up to? You started out as a winger, right?

“I started out as a striker. Growing up, I used to look at Thierry Henry and I just really wanted to do stuff that he did in the Premier League. That encouraged me to push on and try to make things happen.”

One of our former players Wilf Zaha has spoken about how hard it was to train against you. What was it like training against him and did you learn stuff about your own game?

“Yeah that is when I realised my actual strengths, from playing against him. It was not easy and it was always a challenge, but at the same time it helped me and made me realise what it is to play against players like him in the Premier League.”

Your one-on-one defending is unbelievable and you have got that nickname ‘Spider’. Tell us about that…

“'The Spider' is about the range and length of my legs when I'm lunging to tackle the ball. That's where the nickname comes from.”

What would you say are your best attributes as a player?

“I would say dribbling, speed and tackling.”

You have played against United before so what was it like to play against Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and everybody else?

“United [at Selhurst Park] was my second game in the Premier League and the game wasn’t going to be easy for me, I knew that. So with me I had to just concentrate and at the same time it was good to play against these players. These are superstars. I learned a lot from that game, playing against them, which has helped me in my development.”

Have you spoken to Ole and what did he say to you about Manchester United?

“Yeah I have spoken to him and he has told me how he feels about me. Ole has reassured me about his plans, what he is going to do with the team. That is something I want to be a part of. It was the gaffer’s decision and his plan to rebuild, and to bring the team back to where it is supposed to be. I wanted to be a part of that plan.”

You kept a clean sheet at Old Trafford last season – what do you remember from that experience?

“That was my first time there. I couldn’t believe that stadium! As I said in one of the interviews back then, it was one of the best ones I have played at, for its size, the pitch, the fans and the noise. The atmosphere is always loud.“

How much are you looking forward to playing there in the red of United?

“I am looking forward to it. I am excited and I can’t wait to get out there.”

Finally, do you have a message for the fans who are excited to see you play for United?

“I just want to say thanks for welcoming me to this amazing club, I can’t wait to see you and get started. I think it is an honour to represent this club and I can’t wait to engage with the fans. I have seen the support they give in every game. This club is known for winning trophies and I want to be a part of that, to win my first. I can see that the fan base is huge and they support the team through thick and thin. I am going to give everything for the club and for the fantastic fans and I can’t wait to get started.”

Wan-Bissaka signs for United

Manchester United is delighted to confirm the signing of Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace. Aaron has signed a five-year contract with an option to extend for a further year.

The 21-year-old defender came through the ranks of Crystal Palace’s academy. He made his professional debut in February 2018 and picked up both the fans’ player of the year award and also the players’ player of the year award in his first full season. Aaron represented England at this year’s UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “Aaron is one of the best upcoming defenders in the Premier League. He has the right work ethic, talent and mentality to play for Manchester United and he fits exactly the type of player that we are looking to bring into the squad to help us improve and push on further.

“Aaron is a young, hungry player and eager to learn and that’s important at his age. I am delighted he has signed with us and we look forward to continuing his tremendous development so far.”

Aaron Wan-Bissaka said: “It’s an unbelievable feeling and an honour to call myself a Manchester United player and something I know that only a small number of players have the privilege to say.

“I can’t wait to get going and integrated into the squad. I will have a short break now after the European Championships but I’m looking forward to starting training with the manager and my new team-mates on the pre-season tour.”

What does season six hold for Shaw at United?

Five years have passed since Luke Shaw completed his transfer to Manchester United and, on the eve of the 2019/20 season, the improving left-back is evidently a pivotal player at Old Trafford.

It may have taken him longer than expected to achieve that standing, after suffering a career-threatening leg break that was followed by a challenging period out of the team, but he is finally there and looks set to be an important figure under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this coming campaign.

The boss is determined to build a young and hungry squad that will work hard, and that intent was signalled by his capture of 21-year-old forward Daniel James from Swansea City earlier this month.

Shaw has experienced how it feels to join United as a hot prospect from another British club – which was Southampton, in his case – and he will presumably be well-placed to help any new recruits to settle in this summer.

Last season was a turbulent one for United, with a change in manager taking place at the midway point, yet it remained Shaw’s best campaign from his five as a Manchester United player so far.

Luke was proud to take home a couple of Player of the Year awards in May after winning the majority of votes from his team-mates and also the fans.

Those prizes meant a lot to him, and so they should.

But he admirably acknowledged in his acceptance speeches that it wasn’t an exceptional season and everybody is striving to improve.

His challenge now is clear: harness that momentum and build on it.

Shaw made 40 appearances across the 2018/19 season and all of them were as a starter: that tally is remarkably twice as many as his previous best of 20, which he registered in his debut campaign.

The legendary Denis Irwin averaged 44 appearances a season across his 12 years at Old Trafford and, while it is not healthy to compare eras, that level of consistency will be the aim for Shaw in 2019/20.

If fit and injury free, exceeding his personal best of 40 is wholly achievable – especially when you consider we will compete in the Premier League, Europa League, League Cup and Emirates FA Cup.

Just like last summer, the left-back has been working hard ahead of the pre-season training camp by grafting on his own during the summer break – as followers of his social media accounts will know.

That attitude has served him well and he’s already spoken about his determination to hit the ground running during Tour 2019.

Solskjaer is absolutely determined to work hard on fitness and tactics ahead of the Premier League campaign beginning against Chelsea at Old Trafford in August.

So what does season six hold in store for Shaw? Hopefully progression, improvement and more success.

Quirky pre-season summer clashes

The phrase 'it's only a friendly' often isn't a fair reflection on such games. Aside from being helpful for pre-season fitness, to blood youngsters or to spread the United word, they possess a special ability to conjure up the weird and the wonderful.

The normal rules of the regular season don't apply, allowing the surreal a look-in. Here we revisit some of the true oddities of United's history, with the help of Forgotten Fixtures, a book dedicated to the Reds' friendly games down the years...

United 4-0 Jonkoping, Polo Grounds, New York, USA, 9 June 1950

This encounter proved a landmark for both sides in that it spanned two separate days. Starting at 10.15pm on 7 June, it finished at 12.05am on 8 June. “It may have been rather late - or should I say early - for football, but there is no doubt the customers left for home happy,” explained United full-back Johnny Carey. Not quite so happy were the Swedes, who were soundly beaten 4-0. Charlie Mitten netted twice from the spot, while Tommy Bogan and Stan Pearson competed the scoring.

United 1-1 Persepohs, Tehran, Iran 27 May 1975

The world tour ahead of the 1975/76 season started in Switzerland before heading to Hong Kong and Australia ... via Tehran, naturally! A squad shorn of internationals Martin Buchan, Lou Macari, Alex Forsyth and Stewart Houston, as well as Steve Coppell, who was sitting university exams, plus Tony Young who'd failed to turn up at the airport having decided to leave the club, could only muster a draw thanks to a Sammy McIlroy goal.

United 2-3 Tottenham, SomhIoIo Stadium, Swaziland, 4 & 11 June 1983

After the FA Cup final win over Brighton & Hove Albion, United travelled to Swaziland for a money-spinning double header against Tottenham Hotspur. The Reds took the initiative by taking the first fixture 2-1. Before the re-match, which Spurs won 2-0, both teams joined to form a 'Tottman' XI that beat Swaziland 6-1. With Tottenham and United having won a game each, a deciding penalty shoot-out was held in which the London side triumphed.

United 1-2 Mazda, LittIeton Road, Salford, 24 July 1991

Little was made of the visit of a Japanese touring side coached by Reds legend Bill Foulkes, but the three dozen or so spectators were the first to see Peter Schmeichel in a United shirt. The Dane would go on to become a cornerstone of the club's success in the 1990s but he could do little to prevent the visitors beating the European Cup-Winners' Cup holders 2-1.

United 2-1 Thailand, Tajamangala Stadium, Bangkok, 29 July 2001

The Thailand players were each offered £1,550 by a local businessman to score against United. The team’s manager Virat Champarich added £150 of his own money to the kitty, which was won by Sirapan when a neat dribble took him past Ronny Johnsen, Nicky Butt and Wes Brown and allowed him to fire home. Ryan Giggs and Quinton Fortune scored at the other end for United.

United 2-1 Portsmouth, Abuja, Nigeria, 27 July 2008

The Nigerian media suggested there had been one million ticket applications for what was effectively a Community Shield rehearsal staged in Africa, including 5,000 from the UK and another 5,000 from Ghana! Jermain Defoe scored a consolation for Pompey after Chris Eagles and Carlos Tevez put the Reds 2-0 up. When the sides met again at Wembley a fortnight later, and drew 0-0, Sir Alex Ferguson’s side lifted the Shield after beating Harry Redknapp’s men 3-1 on penalties.

Why Lindelof's looking forward to facing Leeds

Manchester United's fierce rivalry with Leeds United will be renewed in pre-season and for Victor Lindelof it means coming up against a familiar face.

The Whites will provide the opposition in Perth, Australia on Wednesday 17 July, in what will be the first meeting between the old adversaries since the Reds ran out 3-0 victors in a League Cup tie at Elland Road in September 2011.

Lindelof is excited about facing the Yorkshire club for the first time, not least because his fellow Sweden defender, Pontus Jansson, has become a cult hero with the Leeds fans since arriving in 2016.

“I’ve never played against them but I’ve heard about the rivalry with Leeds of course,” Victor said. “Even if it is a pre-season game, I think it’s going to be a tough one.

“I have a Swedish friend playing there so it’s also going to be fun. I’m looking forward to that game.”

Victor is embarking on his third pre-season as a United player after arriving at Old Trafford in the summer of 2017, and the Swede highlighted the importance of the coming weeks as the Reds prepare for the 2019/20 campaign.

“Pre-season is very important for the team,“ Victor affirmed. “New players come in and meet the group and I think it’s vital, especially this season, that we’re altogether in the beginning and work through things we want to do and the things we want to improve, so yeah I would say pre-season is very important.

“When I had just signed for the club, it was important for me to meet and bond with all the players and staff, see what what kind of personalities there are and see how the club worked. I really enjoyed it.”

Although Victor and his team-mates are not due to return to the Aon Training Complex until next Monday, 1 July, the players have been doing their own work during the break so they arrive back raring to go for pre-season training. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer outlined that expectation when he spoke ahead of our final game of last season.

“We are professionals,“ Victor said, ”so even when we’re on holiday we still have to train and keep the fitness levels up.

“The most important thing in pre-season is to get minutes on the pitch, feel the rhythm of the game and work through the tactics, so that everyone knows exactly what we want to do.”

As well as Leeds United, the Reds will also play against local side Perth Glory in Australia before moving on to face Inter Milan in Singapore, Tottenham Hotspur in Shanghai, Kristiansund in Oslo and AC Milan in Wales before the new Premier League season gets under way on 11 August with United hosting Chelsea at Old Trafford.

Off the pitch, Victor is excited about meeting more of United's global fan base and believes that every game, while acting as an opportunity to gain match fitness, is an important one.

“It’s a huge, huge club and you see that when we go on tour. All the people want to see us play and even train and yeah, it’s amazing for us to travel the world and meet our fans and see how big and great this club is.

“I think all of the games are very important for us. Some teams are better than others, but it’s pre-season and all of the games are important for us.”

Richard Hartis appointed senior goalkeeping coach

Manchester United is delighted to announce the appointment of Richard Hartis as Senior Goalkeeping Coach.

Hartis arrives with great experience and knowledge of the club having spent over ten years as Head of Academy Goalkeeping at Manchester United from 2000-2010. During the 2007/08 season Hartis worked with the first team as the club secured the historic double of the Premier League and Champions League.

The goalkeeping coach’s return sees him reunited with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who he previously worked with at Manchester United, Molde and Cardiff City. Most recently Hartis worked at The FA, as national goalkeeping coach for the professional development phase, where he was a member of the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup-winning team.
Richard Hartis said:

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to return to Manchester United; a club that I know very well. I have a great relationship with Ole and I fully understand his philosophy; the chance to work with him again is really exciting. David, Sergio, Lee and Dean are an excellent group of goalkeepers and I am also looking forward to working with Emilio and the rest of the goalkeeping coaches to develop the immense talent at the club.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said:

“Richard is a fantastic goalkeeping coach and has a proven track record of developing goalkeepers for winning teams. The depth in goalkeeping talent at Manchester United is exceptional and I know that Richard can help to take them to the next level. Richard’s coaching abilities will really complement our current coaches and everyone is looking forward to working with him.”

McTominay eager for tough pre-season tests

Scott McTominay believes playing “top-quality sides” in pre-season can prove to be a real advantage as Manchester United prepare for a long Premier League campaign.

The Reds will take on three of the continent's best teams in the International Champions Cup (ICC) in July and August - Antonio Conte’s Inter Milan in Singapore on 20 July, Champions League finalists Tottenham Hotspur in Shanghai on 25 July and finally seven-time European champions AC Milan in Cardiff on 3 August.

United have also announced friendly fixtures against Perth Glory, Leeds United and Kristiansund, with all six pre-season games designed to boost the squad's fitness levels.

The Reds' 2019/20 Premier League campaign begins with a home game against Chelsea - Conte's most recent former club - and McTominay believes those three ICC fixtures in particular will be the ideal preparation for our Old Trafford clash with the Blues.

“You need to play the best teams to get a feel for how you’re getting on as a group and how everything is going with the different systems you play,” the 22-year-old told Inside United, the club’s official monthly magazine.

“But more importantly, when you play against the bigger teams, I think that really helps with your match fitness. So, it’s a positive for us that we’re playing some real top-quality sides.”

While McTominay is preparing for his third consecutive pre-season tour with the first team, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, is readying himself for his first as United boss.

“When it comes to pre-season, that’s the start of the proper season for the manager,” said Scott.

“It’ll be good to be together as a group and if a few signings come in we’ll be ready for that and welcome them with open arms.”

Having experienced a pre-season tour while still a reserve-team player in 2017, McTominay knows how important time away can be for the younger players hoping to transition into the senior squad.

“It will be good for the younger players who came on the tour last year and who will come again this year to get a feel for exactly what goes on - how the players prepare for games, exactly what they do, the meetings we have and things,” he said.

“It can be a vital time in their development. It just helps them get to know the lads and it allows them to see what you’re about on the pitch as well.

“That’s one of the most important things - they have to trust you on the pitch and have confidence in you. It’s an invaluable experience.”

Mata will keep setting the right example at United

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was understandably quick to highlight the influence of Juan Mata after the Spaniard signed a new contract.

The 31-year-old is one of the senior professionals at the club and much respected by the staff and his colleagues.

Ole appreciates the example he sets to the youngsters looking to catch the boss's eye and feels there is much they can learn from his professional approach to the game, and the way he conducts himself.

Tellingly, Ole also added: “He understands what it means to be a Manchester United player and has embraced everything about this great club.”

Juan is certainly an adopted Mancunian and loves being a Red. Since his move north from Chelsea in 2014, he has settled here and provides the same class and composure off the pitch as he does on it.

For some reason, when you think of anybody wearing the official club suit with pride, he is one of the players who instantly comes to mind.

A couple of years ago, Inside United spoke to Juan about what advice he would have given to the teenage Mata set to make his senior debut and, after careful consideration, he shared the words that could resonate with the youngsters in the current Reds squad.

“Just try to enjoy it,” he said. “Be professional – as I have been – take care of your body, because your body is your tool to perform at the good level for many years. Enjoy every single day, and don’t take anything for granted.

”Wake up every day feeling lucky and privileged and go to training with the best motivation because anything can change in one second so don’t take anything for granted, even in football.“

In terms of his contribution in the red shirt, there is much still to achieve for Mata. His goal against former side Chelsea, the final one for United at Old Trafford last season, was his 33rd in the league for the club.

It put him level with Roy Keane in the overall Premier League scoring charts for United in 13th place, one behind current team-mate Anthony Martial, and two adrift of striker Mark Hughes.

Of course, his game is about much more than hitting the net as his shrewd, intelligent work is always capable of unlocking defences.

An experienced figure with so much top-flight pedigree, he should continue to exert his influence and combine well with those around him.

We all know Juan Mata is a model professional and somebody who will be doing all he can to get United back up the table next season.
The opinions in this story are personal to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Manchester United Football Club.

Mata signs new contract with United

Manchester United is delighted to announce that Juan Mata has signed a new contract, which will keep him at the club until June 2021, with the option to extend for a further year.

During his time at United, Mata has won an Emirates FA Cup, a League Cup, the UEFA Europa League and FA Community Shield.
The midfielder has been capped by Spain on 41 occasions and was a member of the squad that won the 2010 World Cup, as well as the 2012 European Championship.

Juan Mata said: “It is a real honour to continue to represent this amazing club and our incredible fans. I have been at Manchester United for five years and I am proud to call Old Trafford my home.

“I am looking forward to working with Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] and his fantastic coaching staff; the vision that they have for the club is truly exciting and I am so happy that I will be a part of that.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “Juan is the ultimate professional and one of the most intelligent players I have worked with. He is a great example to our younger players in his approach. He understands what it means to be a Manchester United player and has embraced everything about this great club.

“As well as everything he brings on the pitch, we have some fantastic young players here and I know that Juan’s vast experience will help them to reach their potential over the coming seasons. I am delighted that he has signed a new contract, as I know that his talent and mentality will be invaluable to the squad.”

Dalot determined to get the right-back slot

Diogo Dalot has revealed in an exclusive interview with Inside United, the official club magazine, that his goal is to make the right-back slot his own next season.

The Portuguese defender feels his debut campaign in the Premier League was an opportunity to settle into English football, but he is now ready to cement a regular starting spot.

After making 23 appearances last term, and contributing to some memorable occasions, Dalot is determined to prove his worth to manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

By operating in a more advanced role at times, including in the Champions League win at Paris Saint-Germain, the 20-year-old showed his versatility. However, his primary aim remains to impress on the right-hand side of defence.

“At the end of the season, the results were not what we wanted,” he told Inside United. “But I can say it was a big season for me.

”Playing 23 games, and I only started playing properly and had my fitness in December, so it has been very good for me to have the opportunity to play in some different positions.

“I want to make my statement in the team and play as much as I can at right-back because I think it's my best position. I just need to prove that to the manager with my work.”

When reflecting on the campaign as a whole, Dalot feels he has got to grips with Premier League football and will have no further worries about adaptation to the division.

“I know that some people thought I might come here and not play as much as I have this season,” he said. “Some people thought I would play more.

”We all have different opinions but, overall, I think it was a very good season to settle in, start to know the club, know the league, know the atmosphere and now there is no excuse for next season.

“I just need to push on. My goal is to make right-back my own.”

Fred: You miss playing football!

Brazilian midfielder Fred has admitted that the release of the fixture list for next season’s Premier League makes him “hungry” to get back to Old Trafford and begin the new season.

The 26-year-old arrived last summer from Shakhtar Donetsk, making 25 appearances in all competitions during his debut season, and is keen to kick on in his sophomore campaign.

“When the fixture list is released, while you’re on holiday, wherever it is in the world, it reminds you and it makes you hungry to play again,“ he told us. ”I think that is the starting point of the season.

“It’s nice to be with your family, but you miss playing football a little bit. You miss being on that pitch but, when you come back for pre-season and get back to training, that’s when you really feel the desire to get back on the pitch with the fans there. So, yeah, I think it’s when pre-season starts and you really feel the hunger to play again.

“Last season, my first one here, was difficult, but I think I ended the season off okay, and I hope next season will be really good for me and a lot better for Manchester United, and I am excited to be a part of that.”

Like most Reds, upon the release of the fixture list, Fred’s eyes quickly look for the matches against our traditional rivals, Liverpool and Manchester City.

“The English league is difficult and has lots of big clubs but I think the derbies are the best games to play so, when we see the fixture list, we look at those games first,“ he added.

“It’s hard to pick out a single team, because there are so many big games here in the Premier League, obviously there are the top teams like Liverpool, City, Chelsea, I think those big games, the ‘big six’ are always good. We always look forward to them, we all want to be on the pitch and to win them.”

But first there is pre-season, beginning in July. The Reds will reconvene at the Aon Training Complex before heading to Australia, Singapore and China on their summer tour – weeks that will provide vital training and match practice for the team ahead of 2019/20.

“It’s really good to be with your team-mates again,” Fred said of the first day back at training.

“We’re going to be together until the end of the season, so it’s really good, it’s really important [that] we tell each other about our holidays and stuff so, yeah, it’s always great, that first day back.”

Fred accepts, however, that the squad know more is expected of them this season, after an inconsistent campaign last term.

“We have a few things to improve; we were not happy with how last season finished,” assessed the left-footed midfield man. “Unfortunately we couldn’t go a little further in the Champions League and in the other cups, and we didn’t do as well as we wanted in the league, so I think there are things we need to improve. As a team, we will discuss what went wrong so that we can have a better season and challenge for trophies. That’s what we all, and the fans, want the most!

“I want to say that next season we will be better,” he continued. “We will be looking to challenge for trophies. We are Manchester United and we have to be ready to battle for every trophy, and I’m sure that we will have a successful season with the fans’ fantastic support.”

How United's pre-season schedule shapes up

There are just two weeks to go until the Manchester United first-team squad returns to the Aon Training Complex on Monday 1 July, to begin preparations for the 2019/20 season.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already spoken about his desire to oversee a hard-working training camp this summer, to provide his Reds with a stronger foundation of fitness for the campaign ahead.

The manager is also determined to properly instil his attacking philosophy in the group, after taking charge of the club on a caretaker basis last December before earning the full-time position in March.

Chances to coach the players on the training ground were limited in Solskjaer’s first half-a-season as boss, due to the abundance of fixtures that take place in the second half of a campaign. As such, Ole is excited by the prospect of working with his squad in a much more detailed way this summer.

WHAT’S IN STORE THIS SUMMER?

Due to the various international tournaments and fixtures that have already been played this summer, or are still to be played, such as the UEFA Nations League finals and Copa America competition in Brazil, it has not yet been confirmed which United players will return on 1 July.

Solskjaer’s Reds will work hard at the Aon Training Complex for around a week before flying out to Australia for the start of Tour 2019, presented by Aon. A training camp will be set up in Perth, and the same city will also host United's beneficial friendlies against Perth Glory on 13 July and Leeds United on 17 July.

After that, the squad will play three fixtures in the International Champions Cup, against Inter Milan in Singapore on 20 July, Tottenham Hotspur in China on 25 July and AC Milan in Wales on 3 August. To buy tickets and find out more about those matches, plus the two games in Australia, visit manutd.com/tour.

In a separate pre-season friendly, Ole will take the team to his homeland of Norway for a meeting with Kristiansund on 30 July.

Smalling feels youth will be given a chance

Chris Smalling is excited to see which of Manchester United’s young players will make the travelling squad for the summer tour.

The experienced centre-back believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will have a close look at the options available to him within the ranks as he plots a 2019/20 campaign that includes the Europa League.

Tahith Chong, James Garner and Mason Greenwood all made their senior debuts under the manager and, although there is no World Cup or European Championship to affect availability, they will be among those hoping to impress the Norwegian once pre-season training starts in earnest on 1 July.

Smalling is supportive of the younger players, but does appreciate the timing must be absolutely right to blood them.

“It’s a big part of the job,” he replied, when we asked whether his senior role included helping Academy products make the step up to the senior squad. “It makes you remember when you were the young one coming up and feeling a bit daunted because of the star names.

”It's very much an exciting time for them and you want to see them flourish and help them. I’m sure a good number will come on tour and it’s really a time for them to bond with us, and show the manager what they are all about. Ole will definitely give some of them a chance as they’ve been training with us for a long time.

“It is all well and good coming over training with us most of the week, though, but it’s a massive experience getting to know each other off the pitch and building relationships. That’s often the next stage that cements them and makes them feel more confident when they’re on the pitch. Once you know someone, you speak a lot more and demand more. Until you really know someone, it’s hard to demand something from them.”

There is always plenty of talk around United’s youngsters, yet Smalling insists they are in the right place to remain focused on their football.

“It’s not easy as the media always loves to build someone up,” he said. “But, ultimately, it’s about making sure you can keep to those standards. Everyone can have a breakthrough season but it’s about consistency, when you’re tested to see whether you’re the best of the best.

”Ultimately, kids are learning at a young age and need to be mentally strong. It’s all good to have the talent but the mental side is massive as some kids are exposed to that pressure at a very early age now. When I started at Fulham, social media was not as huge as it is now but they started to implement a few little things there. These days, United are very much on it in terms of making sure any kids coming through are not exposed to it too much. We drip feed the interviews they need to do and the manager is very clever as well.

“They can be involved in the squad but then go back to the Reserves and it’s about that evolution. Having a manager like Ole, who is experienced within the club, means United hit the nail on the head with that. Quite often, there can be a clamour from us as fans as well as players, to say 'this kid is great, let’s just throw him in' and everyone is clamouring to do that. But the manager knows the right time to bring them in and take them out.

”Ultimately, they have got long careers ahead of them and you don’t want them to burn out too early or be exposed too soon. The beauty here is we’ve got the best coaches to manage it properly as this club has done year after year.“

Footballers don't come much hungrier than James

Oli McBurnie was Daniel James's room-mate at Swansea City and believes his pal is exactly the sort of hungry youngster Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is targeting for his new-look Manchester United.

The Scotland international striker has good connections at United after helping the club win the 2013 Milk Cup. Impressing as the spearhead of a side containing the likes of Andreas Pereira and Marcus Rashford, he was top scorer in the tournament after being borrowed from Bradford City.

Under Graham Potter's stewardship, the 23-year-old thrived in an attacking line-up with James last term, and has no doubt his friend has the ability and character required to develop into a major star at Old Trafford as he fits the bill for Ole as a promising player eager to make his mark at Old Trafford.

“DJ actually rang me the other day when I was sat on a plane and said: ‘I can’t believe it, Oli, I couldn’t get a game [on loan] at Shrewsbury last season and now I’m at Man United. I can’t believe the mad way football works’,” McBurnie told ManUtd.com.

“He thoroughly deserves everything he gets. I can’t wait to see him do it on the biggest stage and show what he can do. We’ve been room-mates for the last two years. It’s funny as we were room-mates in the Under-23s and then I went up to the first team in the first season and, when he followed me, we started going away and became room-mates again.

”He’s a great kid, like a little big kid, but so professional and so mature for his age in terms of being a footballer. He knows exactly what he wants and how to get there. The way he’s developed and improved over the last six months has been unbelievable. You don’t have teams like Manchester United after you if you’re not a top, top player.

“Everyone knows about his speed - he’s easily the quickest player I’ve ever played with - but all the other parts of his game have improved so much in the last six months, since he’s been introduced to first-team football. He’s been playing against experienced full-backs in the Championship and making them look like little kids.”

James has the sort of personality and enthusiasm that should endear him to the United faithful and is capable of operating in a number of attacking positions.

“I don’t think many are hungrier than DJ,” explained McBurnie. “He’s got such inner self-confidence and belief in himself. He just wants to get as high as possible and go as far as he can. When he was in the first team at Swansea, he played a couple of games but the gaffer pulled him out and he was kind of like asking why.

”The gaffer said ‘I just want to protect you’ but he was saying: ‘No, I just want to play as much as I can and want to keep going’. He is hungry to play on the biggest stage and that's why United are the perfect club to go to – one of the biggest clubs in the world.

“He was asking me what United is like and a lot of things as I know some of the boys there and I am still in contact with them. He was asking me what I thought but his mind was already made up – 100 per cent he wanted to go there. The advice I gave him, anyway, was 'United? You can never turn down that club. Go there and make yourself a superstar'. That is what he’s got to do and I’m sure United fans will see what he’s all about. He’s electric and the sort of boy who gets fans on their feet and a player all fans want to go to watch.

“He played a lot on the left but played on the right as well and up front at times. He’s by far the quickest player I’ve played with, with his press and his one-versus-one abilities, getting in behind. He’s a nightmare for defenders to try to pick up. He can come for it into feet and run at you and, if you get too tight, he can run in behind. With the right passes played in behind, he’s gone and there is no catching him. He’s been working a lot on his final product – his end ball and finishing, which has come on a lot in the past six months. The more he plays, with better coaching and quality of players to play with, he will only go from strength to strength.”

The fact the Reds have looked to the lower divisions for a new recruit is generally being viewed as a real positive, with so much talent available within the EFL. It should give more encouragement to others in the division who are hoping to attract interest from the biggest clubs in the country.

“It's brilliant - 100 per cent,” added McBurnie. “I think it just shows the talent, young British talent, we have at the minute. Clubs don’t always need to go abroad. I know Ryan Giggs had an influence in the transfer with United but it's great for young players coming up and seeing United looking at younger talent. I also think it’s a perfect route for United to go down.

”It’s been a tough season or two for them but the way Ole apparently wants to go, like you’ve said, with young, hungry players to go there, who really want to play for United is exactly what they’re getting with DJ. I think it’s a perfect route for them to go down.

“He is the sort of boy who will just feed off the pressure,” the striker added. “He knows the expectation of playing at a club like United and that is exactly what he needs. He is the type of guy who, when the fans get off their feet for him, he will just feed off it and buzz off it even more as it’ll give him another little extra boost. I can’t wait to see what he does. I’m excited for him, like I say, to show people what he’s about and prove everybody right.”

Lindelof in favour of winter break

Manchester United defender Victor Lindelof believes the introduction of a winter break in 2019/20 will be a positive thing for the Premier League.

The forthcoming campaign will be the first one in England's top tier to feature a mid-season pause, which will take place over two weeks in February, with 10 sides sitting out the first weekend of the month and the remaining clubs having their downtime a week later.

A winter break is commonplace in most of Europe’s top leagues, and Lindelof, who signed for United two years ago today, believes it will only help the players and clubs in the Premier League.

“I think it’s good actually,” Lindelof told MUTV, in an interview at the end of the 2018/19 season.

“I think, if you look at the other countries, they always have a winter break and I think it’s important for the mind and the body as well to get a little bit of rest so you can keep going and work hard throughout the season.

“So yeah, I’m all for it. I know in England we’ve always played a lot during the winter while others have rested a little bit, so I I think it’s going to be good. I think people will enjoy it.”

The Swede is currently having some time off ahead of the United squad's return for pre-season training in July. Lindelof says the first day back after the summer is always an enjoyable one at the Aon Training Complex.

“Well there’s a lot of excitement of course, because we haven’t seen each other for a long time,” he said.

“It’s always nice to see all the players and you know everyone is just excited to get started again, to work hard and get ready for the season.”

The 2019/20 campaign seems that little bit closer for the Reds after Thursday’s Premier League fixture announcement. But while it's always an eagerly anticipated day for the fans, Lindelof has a typically cool response.

“To be honest with you, I never really look at the fixtures list,” our no.2 admitted.

“I just try to focus on my team and myself [in training] and then when the next match is coming, I think 'okay, we’re going to play against them.' Then I start focusing on that game.”

Daniel James - The essential info

As Daniel James becomes a Manchester United player, here is everything you need to know on our new exciting new acquisition from Swansea City.

• Daniel James was born on 10 November 1997 in the Yorkshire town of Beverley.

• Although Daniel was born in England, he qualifies to play for Wales through his father who is from Aberdare in south Wales.

• Primarily a traditional left-winger, the versatile James can also play on the right flank or through the middle in attack, having performed in all those roles for Swansea last season.

• James came through the ranks at Hull City, joining the club at the age of nine and spending seven years at their academy. At the end of the 2013/14 season he made his debut for Hull’s reserves side aged 16, shortly before taking up the opportunity to move to Swansea City in August 2014.

• The youngster made an instant impact for the Swansea U18 side and later enjoyed success with the Swans’ U23s, winning the Premier League Cup, reaching the semi-finals of the PL International Cup and the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup.

• Having first made the senior bench for an FA Cup game in January 2016 and for a Premier League game in October of that year, he was handed his first-team debut by then-manager Carlos Carvalhal in the FA Cup against Notts County in February 2018, coming off the bench to score in an 8-1 win.

• Last season was undoubtedly the young winger’s breakthrough campaign. He made his league debut in August 2018 against Birmingham City, and quickly became an important part of new manager Graham Potter’s rebuilding plans following the Swans’ relegation from the Premier League.

• Having made an instant impact on the Championship, team-mate Oli McBurnie spoke of his talents, saying: “He’s just incredible… that’s three recent games when he’s played and taken the match by storm. There’s not a defender in this league who is capable of dealing with him when he’s on his game.”

• This didn’t escape the attention of Ryan Giggs. The Wales manager and United legend – who knows a thing or two about playing on the wing – handed James his senior international debut for Wales in November 2018 away to Albania. Daniel spoke of his pride after the friendly, saying: “I found out on Monday morning that I would be playing. I felt excited straight away but I knew I needed to stay focused. It was emotional because I’ve come right the way through the Welsh ranks. I know my mum, dad and family were watching on TV and were proud of me. My dad texted me earlier in the day saying he’d nearly been crying. It was a proud moment for me.”

• James scored a brilliant first senior international goal in only his second game for the national side – that strike from outside the box against Slovakia in March proved to be the winning goal, on the 21-year-old’s home international debut in Cardiff.

• James played 38 games for Swansea last season, scoring six goals. His stats included 28 starts in 33 Championship games, netting four league goals, but his standout moment came in the FA Cup, scoring a sensational solo goal in the fifth-round win over Brentford. Look it up on YouTube to see the winger running 80 yards up the pitch, with a host of Brentford players giving chase, before confidently slotting the ball into the back of the net.

• Swansea’s FA Cup journey ended in the quarter-finals with a 3-2 defeat to Manchester City, but the match against the eventual Cup winners saw another impressive performance from James on the left flank.

• Now, of course, a Manchester United player, James was named in Ryan Giggs' Wales squad for their two Euro 2020 qualifying matches against Croatia and Hungary, with the youngster in the starting XI for both games.

United’s fixtures after Europa League games

Manchester United’s schedule for the 2019/20 season is starting to take shape now the Premier League fixtures have been announced.

Amid all the sub-plots and stories to emerge from fixtures-release day, one facet which always intrigues supporters is whom the Reds will face in the league immediately after our European games.

United will play on Thursday nights as we enter the Europa League in the group stage, which commences on 19 September. We will learn our three opponents when the draw is made in Monaco on 30 August.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side have avoided facing any of last season’s fellow top-six clubs immediately after matches in the group phase during the autumn, with an even split of three home games and three clashes on the road too.

SO WHO DO WE FACE?

After our first Europa League group game, the Reds will travel to the London Stadium to face West Ham United on the weekend commencing 21 September.

Following matchday two, there’s another away trip for us as we take on Newcastle United at St James’ Park on the weekend of 5/6 October.

Our visit to Carrow Road to play newly promoted Norwich City will follow the third group game on Thursday 24 October.

After matchday four in the Europa League, we will welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to Old Trafford on the weekend commencing 9 November, prior to the international break.

Our penultimate game in the group phase on 28 November precedes a home match against play-off victors Aston Villa, while the visit of Everton follows our final group match on Thursday 12 December.

WHAT ABOUT THE KNOCKOUT STAGES?
Of course, the Reds will be aiming to go all the way in the Europa League, like we did in 2017, with the final set to be played on 27 May 2020 in Gdansk, Poland.

Should Solskjaer’s side reach the showpiece occasion, we will play four home and away games in the league following knockout matches in the competition.

United will host Watford after the first leg of the round-of-32 tie on 20 February 2020, with a trip to Everton following the second leg a week later.

If we progress, our round-of-16 tie will be played on 12 and 19 March, with a first visit to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to face Spurs following the first leg, and a home clash against newly promoted Sheffield United after the second leg.

A home game against Bournemouth and an away match at Aston Villa respectively, will follow the first and second legs of a potential quarter-final tie, which would be played on Thursday 9 and 16 April.

Should we advance to the semi-finals, a trip to Crystal Palace would come after the first leg is played on 30 April and our final home league match of the season, against West Ham United, would follow the second leg on 7 May.

If we were to reach the final, the game would be played 10 days after our last league fixture of 2019/20 – away at Leicester City on 17 May – and four days after the Emirates FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium on 23 May.

Our opening-day record against the top six

Manchester United will begin a new Premier League season on Sunday 11 August by hosting Chelsea.

The fixtures were announced on Thursday morning, when it was confirmed that – for the first time in 15 years – we will kick off our campaign by playing the Blues.

It’s also the first time we’ve faced a member of the so-called 'top six’ on the opening weekend since the inaugural game of the 2015/16 season, and only the second occasion United have faced Chelsea on the opening weekend.

The first came in 2004, when United were downed 1-0 by the Londoners, courtesy of Eidur Gudjohnsen’s first-half strike. The match is well remembered, because it was Jose Mourinho’s first in the Premier League.

While United were unfortunate that year, we have emerged victorious in our two other meetings with last season's top six on opening weekends, both of which were against Tottenham Hotspur.

The first of those clashes came at the start of the 1997/98 season, when the Reds scored twice in the last 10 minutes to snatch all three points through Nicky Butt's strike and a Ramon Vega own goal.

The most recent meeting with Spurs on the first weekend of the season came four years ago, when again the Reds benefitted from a Tottenham own goal. This time, Kyle Walker inadvertently put the ball past his own goalkeeper, providing what proved to be the only goal of the game.

The 2019/20 season will also be the ninth time we’ve kicked things off by playing a club from the capital. United fans will no doubt have fond memories of the last time this happened, two years ago, in 2017, when we beat West Ham United 4-0 at home.

Of the eight previous games, United have an impressive record of seven wins and just one defeat.

When do we face the Premier League's best?

The 2019/20 Premier League fixtures are out, and Reds everywhere have been combing through our schedule to see how it looks.

Whether you think our opening games will set the tone, or have a particular eye on our run-in, almost all of us would agree that our matches against the other clubs in last season’s top six will prove important.

We start with a hugely tantalising match against Chelsea at Old Trafford on the first Sunday of the season, but when are we due to face Manchester City, Liverpool and the rest? Read on to find out…

MANCHESTER CITY

The first Manchester derby of 2019/20 arrives just before Christmas, with the Reds due to visit the Etihad Stadium on Saturday 7 December, shortly after two consecutive home games against Aston Villa (30 November) and Tottenham Hotspur (3 December).

That will be Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s first trip to east Manchester since taking charge of the first team in December 2018, and he’ll welcome Pep Guardiola’s side to Old Trafford for the return clash in 2020, with the game currently pencilled in for 7 March.

LIVERPOOL

Jurgen Klopp’s men will be the fifth Premier League side to journey to Old Trafford in the forthcoming campaign (after Chelsea, Crystal Palace, Leicester City and Arsenal). The game will take place the weekend of Saturday 19 October – our first league encounter after the second international break of the season.

We’ll head to Anfield on the third weekend of the new year (scheduled for 18 January), in between two home meetings with Norwich City and Burnley, respectively.

CHELSEA

The Londoners will be our opening opponents of the campaign, in an echo of 2004/05, when Chelsea beat United 1-0 at Stamford Bridge in Jose Mourinho’s very first game as a Premier League manager. This time, however, the match will take place in M16, where United have not lost to the Blues in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. We’ll play Chelsea in west London in February, on either the 8 or 15 February, depending on the timing of the winter break.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR

Last season’s Champions League finalists visit Old Trafford in December, for a midweek contest (Tuesday 3 December) that will be our first match in the year’s final month. Our debut appearance at the Lilywhites’ impressive new Tottenham Stadium is marked for Saturday 14 March – following the second Manchester derby of 2019/20.

ARSENAL

The Gunners will be the fourth Premier League opponent to try to win at the Theatre of Dreams next term. Unai Emery’s men are provisionally set to play us on Saturday 28 September, while our trip to the Emirates Stadium is due to take place on New Year’s Day.

Of course, all fixtures are subject to adjustment, due to our involvement in the Europa League and television schedules. Keep an eye on ManUtd.com and the Official App to get news of those forthcoming changes as soon as they are confirmed.

Revealed: 2019/20 Premier League fixtures

Manchester United’s provisional Premier League fixtures for the 2019/20 season have been released and we're starting with a huge game at Old Trafford.

The Reds begin the campaign by hosting our top-six rivals Chelsea on Sunday 11 August, at 16:30 BST, in a game that has already been selected for live television coverage on Sky Sports. It will be the first time we’ve met the Blues on the opening day since the 2004/05 season.

Our first away trip of 2019/20 comes the following week when we travel to the Midlands to take on Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Fans will no doubt already be anticipating our meetings with Liverpool next season, which are currently scheduled for Old Trafford on 19 October and Anfield on 18 January.

The first Manchester derby of the new season takes place at the Etihad Stadium in early December and we host our neighbours a few months later, in early March.

To finish the 2019/20 campaign, the Reds will welcome West Ham United to the Theatre of Dreams in the penultimate weekend, before wrapping things up away to Leicester City on Sunday 17 May.

*It should be noted that all of the dates listed are provisional and subject to change as the season unfolds, when Sky Sports, BT Sport and Amazon Prime announce which matches will be selected and moved for live TV.

UNITED'S PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURES 2019/20

Sun Aug 11 Chelsea H
Sat Aug 17 Wolverhampton Wanderers A
Sat Aug 24 Crystal Palace H
Sat Aug 31 Southampton A

Sat Sep 14 Leicester City H
Sat Sep 21 West Ham United A
Sat Sep 28 Arsenal H

Sat Oct 5 Newcastle United A
Sat Oct 19 Liverpool H
Sat Oct 26 Norwich City A

Sat Nov 2 Bournemouth A
Sat Nov 9 Brighton and Hove Albion H
Sat Nov 23 Sheffield United A
Sat Nov 30 Aston Villa H

Tue Dec 3 Tottenham Hotspur H
Sat Dec 7 Manchester City A
Sat Dec 14 Everton H
Sat Dec 21 Watford A
Thu Dec 26 Newcastle United H
Sat Dec 28 Burnley A

Wed Jan 1 Arsenal A
Sat Jan 11 Norwich City H
Sat Jan 18 Liverpool A
Tue Jan 21 Burnley H

Sat Feb 1 Wolverhampton Wanderers H
Sat Feb 8 Chelsea A (Matches to be played 8 or 15 February)
Sat Feb 22 Watford H
Sat Feb 29 Everton A

Sat Mar 7 Manchester City H
Sat Mar 14 Tottenham Hotspur A
Sat Mar 21 Sheffield United H

Sat Apr 4 Brighton and Hove Albion A
Sat Apr 11 Bournemouth H
Sat Apr 18 Aston Villa A
Sat Apr 25 Southampton H

Sat May 2 Crystal Palace A
Sat May 9 West Ham United H
Sun May 17 Leicester City A

What will United's winter break look like?

The Premier League has introduced a historic first winter break for the forthcoming season, which will take place in February 2020.

Following the release of the fixture list, we know that United will play Wolves at home – provisionally on 1 February – before the break takes place.

The Reds will then take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, in a reversal of 2019/20's opening fixture. The clash in the capital will be staged either on the weekend of 8 or 15 February, with the spare weekend allowing the club a space in our schedule. The exact dates will be finalised around 14 December, when adjustments to that period are announced due to television coverage.

All five matches on each of those February weekends will be broadcast live in the UK, as part of the new television package.

The idea is for the round of fixtures to be spread across a fortnight to enable clubs to take a break from the action, akin to other leagues across Europe, in a bid to aid the England national team and English clubs in Europe, even if Premier League teams contested both the Champions League and Europa League finals last term.

The Football Association confirmed when announcing the plan that the February break would be structured to ensure that fans still get their fix of football over this period.

“Each weekend during the break will feature five Premier League games on the first weekend and five on the following weekend,” they stated on their official website.

“To incorporate this, the FA has agreed to move the Emirates FA Cup fifth-round matches to midweek. In addition, from the start of the 2019/20 season, fifth-round replays will be removed from the calendar, being replaced with extra-time and penalties in the first tie.”

Giggs: James is a speed merchant

Wales manager Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United’s first signing of the summer, Daniel James, is potentially the fastest footballer he has ever laid eyes on.

The 45-year-old Old Trafford icon was a famously fleet-footed left winger in his own playing days, and racked up a record 963 appearances for the club between 1991 and 2013.

But despite that lengthy career in the game, in which he played alongside turbo-charged speedsters like Andrei Kanchelskis and Cristiano Ronaldo – and against countless rapid opponents – Giggs believes he has never encountered another player quite as swift as James.

“First of all, his best attribute is his speed,” said our former no.11. “I mean, I’ve probably not seen anyone as quick as him in my whole career. That’s a big shout, because obviously I’ve played [with] and played against quick players.

“He can play a number of positions – anywhere across the front three, really – and, this year, he’s played quite a bit for Swansea up front, which he’s not done a lot of in the past, but he’s looked comfortable.

“He’s a nightmare for defenders. He’s not that big, so it’s hard to get your arm across him. He’s both-footed, can score goals, create goals.”

Giggs granted James his international debut in November 2018 and, in March, watched on as the youngster earned Wales a 1-0 victory over Slovakia in his first competitive start, when he fired home after just five minutes. The youngster also started both recent European Championship qualifiers against Croatia and Hungary.

The legendary winger is full of praise for the 21-year-old’s attacking capabilities, but also keen to highlight his mental toughness.

“He’s got a really good temperament as well,” Giggs explains. “He went through a tough stage where he went out on loan [to Shrewsbury], and it didn’t quite work out. He came back, did really well for Swansea and then, it was well documented, at the turn of the year, his move to Leeds fell through.

“Then, after that, really, he’s just been on fire. So it just shows the strength of character that he has got, because I know that he was close to moving. He didn’t let it get to him; he just concentrated, knuckled down, did really well for me [for Wales] against Slovakia, obviously scored the winning goal, and he’s just got better and better all season. He’s still young, still learning the game, but he’s a speed merchant and I’m sure he’ll be a nightmare for defenders on that big Old Trafford pitch.”

James is one of several exciting, young Welsh talents available to Giggs, with Bournemouth’s David Brooks and Liverpool’s Harry Wilson, who was on loan at Derby County last term, also enjoying fine seasons in 2018/19, and the 13-time Premier League winner feels he is putting together a promising Wales squad which boasts a blend of experience and youth.

“I’ve got experienced players and I’ve got young players coming through, and Dan is one of them,” he continues.

“What I want is competition for places. Everyone always says you want two players for every position, and I’m nearly getting there in that department. But especially [in the] front areas, wide areas, I’ve got plenty of choice, and even Dan may find it hard to get in the starting line-up!

“It just shows the quality that I have got. I’m lucky in that respect, that I’ve got a lot of young players at my disposal.”

When can United fans first see James in action?

Excitement is growing at Manchester United with the announcement that Daniel James has joined the club from Swansea City.

The Welsh winger has impressed for both club and country in the last year and has left many United fans eager to see our new recruit’s skills in action.

Fortunately, there will be plenty of opportunities to get to know James ahead of the new Premier League season, for which the fixtures will be announced on Thursday.

For example, the 21-year-old could be involved in the United squad which will head to Australia in July, to play our first warm-up games ahead of the upcoming 2019/20 campaign.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men begin the pre-season schedule with a friendly against Perth Glory at the Optus Stadium in Perth on 13 July, which may give supporters the first opportunity to see James play for the Reds.

The same arena in Perth will provide another opportunity four days later, when Leeds United are the opposition for our second Tour 2019 match.

Tickets for both games are still available at www.manutd.com/tour.

After two fixtures in Australia, the Reds will then begin the International Champions Cup campaign, in which we will take on Inter Milan (20 July), Tottenham Hotspur (25 July) and AC Milan (3 August).

Sandwiched between the last two ICC games is a friendly match against Norwegian outfit, Kristiansund, in Oslo on 30 July.

All of these matches will help Solskjaer and his squad to prepare for our first Premier League game of the season on the weekend of 10-11 August.

Daniel James: His first United interview

Daniel James has described his move to Manchester United as “surreal” in his first interview as a Red.

The Welsh international’s transfer was agreed in principle last week, but on Wednesday afternoon, James was officially unveiled as a United player.

Upon becoming our first signing of the summer transfer window, Daniel spoke to MUTV and expressed his delight at joining the club.

Daniel, welcome to Manchester United. How does it feel to become a United player?

“Thank you. For me, it’s surreal, really. I think every kid grows up wanting to play for Manchester United. I never thought I’d be able to play against them, never mind play for them, so it’s surreal, and I’m really looking forward to it. I can’t wait to get started.”

It’s been a whirlwind couple of years in your career. Does it seem like things have moved very quickly when you look back at how it’s all happened?

“I think so. Last season I didn’t think I was going to get much first-team football. I remember going into the office at the start of this year and saying I wanted to go on loan, so I got told that I’d be a part of something. Obviously, you go out of the office thinking, ‘Is that true?’, and to get more opportunities this year has been amazing. It’s been a great six months for me – to get that many games for Swansea and to obviously get my Welsh debut as well has been amazing.”

How would you describe your game to a fan who perhaps hasn’t seen you play?

“I’d say I’m quite a direct player. I don’t just like to get the ball into feet and dribble at players; I like to get the ball in behind. I’m quite a pacy player.”

You’ve got quite a good influence at international level with Ryan Giggs as the manager. How big a part did he play in the decision to sign here?

“Yeah, Ryan was obviously a big credit to why I’m here now. Obviously he gave that opportunity to me in the Slovakia game, and to score in the first five minutes was amazing for me. I think the trust he’s given me, and from then on he’s watched a few games of me at Swansea... he’s a big credit to why I’m here now. Obviously he mentioned me here and I’d give a lot back to him for that.”

Have you had the chance to have many conversations with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer yet, about his plans for you going forward?

“Yeah, I’ve spoke to him since I’ve been here. I think the ambition they’ve got for the club is amazing for the next few years – to get players in who are hungry and ready to work hard. I believe [in] that and I’m one of those players. I’m willing to work hard. It’s a challenge I’m looking forward to.”

Daniel James signs for Manchester United

Manchester United is delighted to confirm the signing of Daniel James from Swansea City, subject to international clearance.

James signs on a five-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.

The 21-year-old Wales international made his professional debut for Swansea City in February 2018 and his senior Wales debut in November 2018, having previously represented the nation at various youth levels.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said: “Daniel is an exciting young winger with lots of skills, vision, exceptional pace and a good work ethic. He had a great season with Swansea City and has all the attributes needed to become a Manchester United player.

“We are delighted he has signed with our club and we are all looking forward to working with him. This is the perfect environment for Daniel to continue his development.”

Daniel James said:

“This is one of the best days of my life and a challenge I am really looking forward to. The Premier League is the best league in the world and Manchester United is the perfect place for me to continue to develop as a player.

“This is an incredibly proud moment for me and my family; however, it is tinged with sadness that my father isn’t able to share this experience with us. I am looking forward to working with Ole, meeting the team and getting started.”

Matic: Everyone needs to be ready for next season

Nemanja Matic says he and his Manchester United team-mates must approach the new season in a positive manner and hit the ground running from the very first day.

While it may feel like 2018/19 has only just finished, the Premier League fixtures for 2019/20 will be announced tomorrow (Thursday) and United's first pre-season match - against Perth Glory in Australia - is only four-and-a-half weeks away.

As one of the club’s senior players, Matic believes that beginning the new campaign in a positive manner is essential for the Reds’ chances of claiming silverware next year.

“I think we need to be focused from the first day, to prepare physically and to be ready mentally for the season which is in front of us,” the Serbian said.

“We [must] think positively. We want to win trophies, so I think everyone needs to be ready.“

Matic is enjoying a rare summer off with no international football to contend with, but the 30-year-old admitted it is difficult to fully switch off from the sport, even during the summer.

“It’s not possible to not think about football because it is my life,” he said. “Twenty-four hours a day, most of the time I think about football, apart from [when I'm thinking about] my family. It is something that I’ve done since I was 5 years old.

“Even in the summer, I play football with my son and I play two-touch with my brother.“

The former Chelsea midfielder is preparing for his third season as a United player and says he is looking forward to catching up with his team-mates when pre-season begins at the start of June.

“The mood is always great,” he said. “But last summer, because we had the World Cup, we had a shorter holiday and didn’t have as much time to rest.

“This time I think we will have more days off, so I think by the start of July we’ll be in a good mood.

“I've had many hard pre-seasons, especially when I started playing football in Serbia,” he added.

“We had some old-school coaches [in Serbia], one month without the ball, just running. I don’t think Ole [Gunnar Solskjaer] will do the same.”

Our pre-season schedule this summer will, of course, lead towards the first Premier League game of the season, and the Reds will soon discover which top-flight side we will face first in August.

While Matic downplays the significance of the opening opponents' identity, he admits he would love to begin the new campaign in front of the Old Trafford faithful.

“I’m getting excited about the new season,” said our no.31. “But I won’t look at the fixtures a lot because you have to look game by game.

“The next game is always the most important, so when the fixtures come out, the most important is the first game, so you are focused on your first game. Then when you’ve finished that you can think about the second one.

“In football it’s not good to think about a game that comes later, so you need to be focused always on the next challenge.”

“It’s always better to start at home, in front of our supporters,” the midfielder added.

“But, as I said, the season is long and that’s not something you can change, but it’s always to good start at Old Trafford, of course.”

Grant: Last summer was a huge eye-opener for me

Manchester United goalkeeper Lee Grant is looking forward to embarking on his second pre-season tour with the Reds.

The experienced stopper got his first real taste of life as a United player during last year’s tour, having joined just a few weeks before flying to the United States with his new team-mates.

This summer, the Reds will play six warm-up games ahead of the new season, in a number of locations around the globe, with tickets still available at manutd.com/tour.

With pre-season just weeks away, Grant has revealed what he’s looking forward to most and which opponent he’s most eager to take on this summer, while reflecting on the experience of 2018...

Pre-season is important for a number of reasons, but team bonding is obviously one of them - how key is that ahead of a new campaign?

“Yeah, it’s always really important, it’s a great time for the guys to come together. Obviously we’re spending two or three weeks in each other’s pockets so you don’t really have a choice but to get used to everybody and understand how everybody works together. It’s a good time to do that and, of course, doing it in the surroundings that we’ll be in this year is going to be great.”

Players get so used to being in each other’s company during the year. Do you miss your team-mates while you’re away in June?

“Absolutely not! I’m probably speaking for most of the guys in saying this, but I’m looking forward to a bit of time away from them and spending a bit more time with my family. It gives everyone a chance to recharge and then you have that excitement the week leading up to pre-season and getting back into it, but yeah, I certainly don’t miss the guys in the off-season.”

This year we’re going to Australia on tour, where the weather is obviously so warm. Does that make training harder or easier for the players?

“It’s both at the same time. So, of course it’s nice to train in warm weather and the pitches are usually good at that time of year. But at the same time, if you’re working really hard, which we will be, it can be difficult, and especially as a goalkeeper you need to be covered up with your arms and padding and everything else. So there can be some hot and difficult afternoons. Also, when you’ve got as much hair as I have, you need plenty of suncream!”

You were on the tour last summer in the US. How much did that bring home the size of United and how many fans we have around the world?

“Yeah, it was a huge eye-opener for me. That was my introduction to the football club, but, of course, as a fan of Manchester United anyway, I understand how big the club is and how large the reach is across the globe. But seeing it first hand and being involved in it, that’s a different kettle of fish all together. So I’m looking forward to see how many fans we’ve got in Australia and Asia and how much attention we can attract. I’m sure it will be huge and I’m looking forward to those games already.”

Was there a moment last summer where you thought it was a little crazy?

“Yeah, a couple of times actually. I mean there were 101,000 people at one of the games, which is just incredible. So yeah, that was one of the moments where it really struck me how important this football club is to everybody on all sides of the globe. Even the opportunities we had to have commercial appearances and meet some of the local people, that was an eye-opener again. People wanted to come out and see us even if it was just for five minutes, or for an autograph, or for a picture, or even to see us training.”

This summer, we play a mixture of local teams and then some of the big guns from Europe. Does that help prepare us for the season? And which game are you looking forward to most?

“Yeah of course, I think playing a variety of teams is important. The Premier League has its ups and downs in terms of opposition, styles, management styles, even down to individual players that we’ll be coming up against, so I think it’s important actually to have that in pre-season. It’s great that we’re doing that at this time of year, and again, playing the top teams is important for a top football club. We aim to be the best, which means we need to prepare like the best and play the best. That’s what we’re doing this summer and I’m looking forward to every game. It’s hard to pick one out in particular [that I’m most looking forward to]. Strangely, I think quite a lot of people, including most Man United fans, will be looking forward to the Leeds clash, and I’m no different in that. So yeah, they’re all important games and I’m looking forward to each and every one.”

A lot of fans are looking forward to the Leeds game as we haven’t played them much over the last 15 years…

“Yeah, and they’re always great games. I don’t think Man United are alone in thinking that they enjoy playing against Leeds. Everybody enjoys playing against Leeds, everybody knows it’s an important club in English football, so yeah that’ll be a good one.”

Are you a big fan of Leeds United head coach Marcelo Bielsa?

“Yeah, he’s really interesting, he seems like a large character, but what I will say as well is that he is thought of really highly by a lot of the Spanish contingent in our squad. The more and more I read about him, the more intrigued I am. He’s a really interesting character.”

There are so many different elements to pre-season: squad bonding, fitness training, tactical work, matches. Is there one in particular that you think is the most important?

“For me it’s the technical, tactical stuff that we’re going to be doing day to day. At the stage we’re at as a football club, I think it’s going to be really important. We’re obviously starting a new season with new management staff, albeit we had them last season, but it’s a chance for the management staff to really put an imprint on what they want from the squad and the team. So it’s an important time, and I’m looking forward to being a part of that and then seeing the results of it once the season gets under way.”

Romero: We look for the derbies on fixtures day!

Hugely experienced goalkeeper Sergio Romero is poised to begin his fifth season at Manchester United in 2019/20.

We recently caught up with the man affectionately known as ‘Chiqi’ to find out which fixtures he’ll be seeking out first when the Premier League schedule is revealed on Thursday, as well as his thoughts on English football’s first ever winter break.

When the fixture list comes out, is there a particular game that you look for straight away like Manchester City or Liverpool?

“No, the first thing I look at is who we’re playing first, the first game of the season, because that’s the day that we have to aim to be at our best physically and mentally and then after, of course, we look at the derbies, when we’re playing City home and away, or Liverpool or Arsenal. I think every player looks at when we’re going to face the big teams.”

In which part of the summer do you start to set yourself up and get excited for the new season?

“After the first two weeks of a pre-season tour, because these are normally really long, you’re away from home for a long time, a lot of time without being with your wife and kids. But, of course, you know that when you return home, it’s because the Premier League is about to start. There’s only a week or five days left, so yeah, I think that moment is when you really start to process everything that you worked on in the pre-season, thinking about the first game.”

When you’re on holiday do you ever kick a ball or is do you just completely switch off?

“I switch off! When I go on holiday, normally I don’t play football or, if I play, I play very little with my friends. But I enjoy playing basketball. I play it with my wife, one v one and games like that, so yeah, I prefer basketball when I'm on holiday. But if there are competitions like the Euros or any other tournament going on, if I can watch a game, I will.”

What’s the first day of training like when you get back to the Aon Training Complex and you see all the coaches and your team-mates again?

“I think the nicest thing when you return is seeing the people that you spend the year with again, people that you’ve been getting closer to over the years. Normally clubs don’t change players much, they don’t really change, a few come and go but, yeah, we are people that have known each other for two, three or four years and it’s always nice to see each other again and start looking ahead again, into the future. We know we have another season ahead of us, with new objectives, or we simply want to have a better season than the last. I think it's always the key moment to start off a good year.”

What do you think about there being a winter break, next February, for the first time in England?

“Putting it into perspective, it’s always good, it’s always important. I was in the Dutch league, where we knew that the final game of the season was 23 December and we’d have a break until 24 January when we’d start playing again. [In that month between games] we had 10 or 12 days free to recharge our energy for the second half of the season. In Italy, it was a few days less than 12 days, you get eight or nine days off. It’s always good when you have a little break, because you can recharge your energy, distract your mind a little and then focus on the second half of the season, which is the most important period of the season. The team has to be strong and giving 100 per cent to get the results that they need to until the end of the season.”

Finally, do you have a message for the United fans ahead of the new season?

“The message is the same as always: we will try to do the best we can, we will try to be better than last season. This year we didn’t win any trophies; next season we want to win a trophy, take the club to the highest position we can. You are already used to us winning and celebrating and we want this too: to keep celebrating and winning and trying to be the best we can.”

United's record in Premier League openers

Manchester United will discover our 28th opening-weekend opponents in the Premier League when the fixtures are released at 09:00 BST on Thursday morning.

The Reds have a fine record when it comes to getting off to a flying start, winning the first game in each of the last four league campaigns, including last year’s 2-1 triumph over Leicester City that kicked off the entire division on the Friday night.

Here, we look back at all of our opening games in the 27 Premier League seasons so far, as we wait to see who we'll face on matchday one of 2019/20...

1992-1998

Things did not begin well for Alex Ferguson's side at the advent of the Premier League in 1992. Brian Deane scored the opening goal of the new competition to hand Sheffield United the lead at Bramall Lane and, despite Mark Hughes finding the net, the Blades won 2-1. Thankfully, after a slow start, Ferguson’s men went on to win the title.

Kicking off a new campaign as champions for the first time since 1968, United earned a 2-0 triumph at Norwich City in 1993 with youngster Ryan Giggs and old campaigner Bryan Robson doing the damage. Giggs would, of course, go on to have a long career himself – he bagged a late winner at the same ground, Carrow Road, over nine years later in February 2012.

A maiden home opener of the new division came in 1994, as Hughes again scored, along with Brian McClair, to earn a 2-0 victory against Queens Park Rangers at Old Trafford. Our first opening-day defeat came the year after, as David Beckham netted in a 3-1 reverse at Aston Villa to prompt BBC pundit Alan Hansen’s comment that “you never win anything with kids”. Of course, come the end of that 1995/96 season, United clinched the Double with a win at Wembley against Hansen’s former club Liverpool.

One of those stellar kids, Beckham, was at it again in 1996, taking another leap towards superstardom with his spectacular goal from the halfway line against Wimbledon at Selhurst Park. The midfielder only came on as a substitute at Tottenham a year later, in a 2-0 win, before hitting the headlines once again in the Treble term of 1998/99 with a glorious late free-kick equaliser against Leicester City.

1999-2013

Following a draw with Everton in 1999 and win over Newcastle in 2000, Beckham scored in yet another opening fixture, in 2001.

However, this time, the headlines belonged to Ruud van Nistelrooy. The deadly Dutchman had already got off the mark on his debut in the Community Shield against Liverpool but this was his league bow and he started as he meant to go on by claiming a double in a 3-2 home success against Fulham. The Cottagers' main man was Louis Saha, who hit a brace; by the opening fixture of 2006/07, he had switched sides and netted in a 5-1 beating of the west Londoners, with Wayne Rooney notching a double.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's solitary goal saw off West Brom in 2002 and then Giggs was on the mark again in 2003 – hitting a brace, including a marvellous free-kick, in the 4-0 beating of Bolton Wanderers.

United faced two future managers in the next two opening fixtures. Jose Mourinho's first game as Chelsea boss in 2004 was the Blues' 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge. Twelve months later, David Moyes, then at the Everton helm, was on the receiving end of the Reds' 2-0 away win with Rooney netting against his former club.

Following a goalless draw with Reading in 2007, Sir Alex's men hosted Newcastle United on the first weekend twice in three seasons, drawing 1-1 in 2008/09 and seeing them off 3-0 in 2010/11. Darren Fletcher was on the scoresheet in both games against the Magpies; sandwiched in between those openers was a narrow win over Birmingham City.

David De Gea's rude introduction to the rigours of English league football ended with a battling 2-1 win at West Brom in 2011, before another meeting with Moyes' Everton resulted in a rare opening-game defeat for United. Marouane Fellaini, who would later follow his boss in joining the Reds, scored the only goal at Goodison Park.

2014-2018

There were contrasting results when we met Swansea City on the opening day in successive seasons – a 4-1 away win under Moyes, with the goals shared by Robin van Persie and Danny Welbeck, followed by a 2-1 home loss in Louis van Gaal's first game as manager.
Rooney was our scorer on that occasion, and he confirmed his status as our leading marksman in opening Premier League fixtures when he netted in a 3-1 victory at Bournemouth in 2016. Zlatan Ibrahimovic enjoyed a goalscoring league debut on the south coast.

Romelu Lukaku went one better than Ibra, with a brace on his Premier League bow for the club, when the Reds beat West Ham 4-0 a year later. Another London side, Tottenham, had been defeated 1-0 at Old Trafford in 2015, courtesy of a Kyle Walker own goal.

Last year’s Friday-night win against Leicester City was memorable for Luke Shaw’s maiden strike in senior football. Meanwhile, fellow goalscorer Paul Pogba could become the first United player to net in three successive Premier League openers if he hits the ground running again in August. The Frenchman was also on target against the Hammers in 2017.

PREMIER LEAGUE OPENERS - THE FACTS AND FIGURES

Biggest win: 5-1 v Fulham (H), 2006.

Heaviest defeat: 3-1 v Aston Villa (A), 1995.

Leading scorers: Rooney 7, Beckham 4, Giggs 4, van Nistelrooy 4.

Most frequent opponents: Everton 3, Newcastle United 3.

Played: 27. Won: 18. Drawn: 4. Lost: 5.

ALL THE RESULTS

1992: Sheffield United (A) 1-2
1993: Norwich City (A) 2-0
1994: QPR (H) 2-0
1995: Aston Villa (A) 1-3
1996: Wimbledon (A) 3-0
1997: Tottenham Hotspur (A) 2-0
1998: Leicester City (H) 2-2
1999: Everton (A) 1-1
2000: Newcastle United (H) 2-0
2001: Fulham (H) 3-2
2002: West Brom (H) 1-0
2003: Bolton Wanderers (H) 4-0
2004: Chelsea (A) 0-1
2005: Everton (A) 2-0
2006: Fulham (H) 5-1
2007: Reading (H) 0-0
2008: Newcastle United (H) 1-1
2009: Birmingham City (H) 1-0
2010: Newcastle United (H) 3-0
2011: West Brom (A) 2-1
2012: Everton (A) 0-1
2013: Swansea City (A) 4-1
2014: Swansea City (H) 1-2
2015: Tottenham Hotspur (H) 1-0
2016: Bournemouth (A) 3-1
2017: West Ham United (H) 4-0
2018: Leicester City (H) 2-1

Darmian: How I turned pro

Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian was just 17 years old when he made his first-team debut for AC Milan. In this recent interview, the full-back spoke to us about his journey from playing youth football in Italy to becoming a professional footballer….

Matteo, football is obviously a big part of your life. Do you remember when you started playing football and did you have talent in those early years?

“I remember I started playing football when I was six in my hometown. Like every kid who starts playing I think my dream was to play at the highest level.”

Do you remember your first local team?

“Yes, they were called Carcor and I have good memories of playing for them. We were a good team and we are all still good friends. I’m still in touch with everyone. It was a good group, with good players.”

Were you the best player in that team, and where did you play?

“Yeah, probably. I started playing as a midfielder and then I moved back into defence.”

Do you remember who your coach was in that team?

“My father was the coach, with another guy helping him.”

What was it like having your dad as coach?

“It was good. Then of course, he continued to train all my friends when I moved to the AC Milan Academy and I have great memories of that team.”

Tell us about when you signed for AC Milan as a youngster…

“I was 10 or 11 and it was very exciting to think I was now playing for a big club. At that moment Milan were probably one of the biggest clubs in the world with a great first team. So, for me, it was a big honour and I was proud.”

Was your first day at the Milan Academy a nerve-wracking one for you?

“No, when you are young, you play just to enjoy yourself and without pressure. That first training session went well and at the end [of my time in the Academy] I became an AC Milan [first-team] player.”

To become a professional footballer, there has to be sacrifice and a lot of fans don’t see that. What sacrifices did you make during your teenage years?

“I made a lot of sacrifices. At that age, I think school is the most important thing and you have to continue studying in a good way because, of course, [making it in] football is not easy. There was also sacrifice for my family because they had to take me everywhere, but now they are happy for me.”

Were there long journeys involved in getting to the Milan Academy?

“When I was playing for AC Milan they had a mini coach which picked me up close to my house. Training started at 3 o’clock, so as soon as I finished school, my grandad took me to the the place where the coach picked me up. I had no time to eat so I often ate just sandwiches to be on time. Then when you get back at night it can be late and you have to eat again and study. It’s not easy when you are a kid but when it is your dream you do everything with a smile and try to find energy everywhere.”

How old were you when professional football became a reality?

“Like I said before, when you are a kid you play without pressure, but your dream is still there. When it became a reality I was like 17 and I started to train with the first team and I realised football was probably my life.”

Are there any coaches or mentors who deserve credit for your rise?

“I have to give credit to all my coaches because every one of them gave me something. Some helped with my mentality, others with my technical development or tactics. I cannot mention just one, I have to thank every one of them.”

What was the moment like when you signed a professional contract? Was it a proud day?

“Yeah, of course. That’s maybe the day I realised that football can be my life and I was proud, not just for me, but for my family and all the sacrifices we made. Of course it wasn’t finished there and I still make sacrifices today - it’s the key to keep improving.“

What are your memories of your first AC Milan senior match and how did it go for you?

“Personally, for me it was a great day because it was my debut. It was so different for me because playing for the Academy is completely different to playing for the first team. It’s a day I’ll remember for the rest of my life. The game was not great in terms of the result because we lost 3-2 at home.”

Is it a life-changing event, because suddenly you become famous?

“Yes, but I just try to be myself in every moment of my career. Of course people recognise you more but for me nothing changed.”

Looking back now, would you change anything in your journey to becoming a professional player?

“No, I have no regrets because in that period I was part of the AC Milan Academy and in that period I grew up as a player, but also as a man.”

My Home Country: What Sweden means to Lindelof

The Manchester United squad comprises 13 different nationalities, but how much do you know about the places our overseas stars come from?

Our ‘My Home Country’ series continues with Victor Lindelof, who recommends what tourists should do in Sweden, tells us his favourite native food and admits what he misses most from his homeland…
What’s the best thing about Sweden?

“Of course, I’m going to say my friends and family but, other than that, I think the people are very nice and the food is very good. I could name a thousand things I like about Sweden. It’s my home, it’s where I grew up. It’s an amazing country with great people, who are very nice and humble. It’s a beautiful country, there are a lot of good things to do.”

Where should a first-time visitor to Sweden go?

“I would take them to Stockholm first, the capital of Sweden. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Whenever you want to go, it’s very beautiful but especially in the summer because it is located near the water and you can take a boat out and just enjoy life.”
What would you cook for someone to introduce them to Swedish cuisine?

“I’m not the best in the kitchen, but I think everyone would start with Swedish meatballs. But, in the west, we have a lot of gravy, so I would probably do a nice salad, boil some potatoes and do like a, I don't know how to say it in English, but it's like beef.”

Where did you holiday in Sweden when you were younger?

“I have three brothers, two who are close to my age and, in the summer, we had a lot of football tournaments. So, usually our holidays involved going away to different parts of Sweden and playing lots of tournaments. But also we went to Greece when I was younger and we used to travel on boats between different islands. That was very nice and it is a good memory that I have.”

What do you miss most about Sweden?

“Well, again, friends and family but, other than that, just going into the grocery store and walking through the store and picking out your favourite things. It’ so easy to just go into the store and buy some nice stuff.”

Confirmed: James signing agreed in principle

Manchester United is delighted to announce that it has agreed, in principle, terms with both Swansea City and Daniel James for his transfer to the club.

Daniel has successfully completed a medical at the Aon Training Complex.

Further details will be communicated once the international transfer window opens next week.

Credit: Manutd.com