Manchester United’s pre-season preparations for the 2025-26 campaign officially kicked off on Monday with fresh energy and new signings at the Carrington training complex. Among the early arrivals were summer recruits Matheus Cunha and Diego Leon, both eager to make an impression as the Red Devils seek to bounce back from a lacklustre previous season.
Brazilian forward Cunha joins from Wolverhampton Wanderers in a move aimed at bolstering United’s attacking options, while 18-year-old Paraguayan prodigy Diego Leon completed his switch from Cerro Porteño over the weekend. Leon, a highly-rated midfielder, is seen as one for the future but will hope to earn some first-team opportunities under incoming manager Ruben Amorim.
While several senior players returned to duty, captain Bruno Fernandes was granted an extended break after international duty. Midfield star Kobbie Mainoo, winger Amad Diallo, goalkeeper André Onana, and defender Luke Shaw were all present, signaling a renewed focus ahead of the Premier League’s kickoff next month.
With Amorim under pressure to deliver results and implement a consistent playing style, the first few weeks of pre-season will be critical in shaping the team’s direction. After a disappointing campaign that saw United miss out on Champions League qualification, expectations are high.
The arrival of Cunha and Leon has injected optimism into the squad and fanbase alike, as Manchester United look to turn the page and start the new season with confidence, discipline, and a hunger to return to the top of English football.