July 19, (THEWILL) — Manchester United kicked off their 2025 pre-season preparations with a frustrating 0-0 draw against Championship rivals Leeds United at Stockholm’s Strawberry Arena on Saturday. The Red Devils dominated possession but failed to convert their chances, with England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo coming closest when his header struck the crossbar following Mason Mount’s corner delivery. Goalkeeper Illan Meslier produced a sharp save to deny defender Ayden Heaven from the resulting scramble, whilst Leeds managed just four shots throughout the encounter.
Ruben Amorim’s side will now travel to the United States for their summer tour, but attention has turned to significant squad changes occurring behind the scenes. Reports emerged during the match that Barcelona have reached an agreement to sign Marcus Rashford on loan with an option to buy, potentially ending the England forward’s long association with Old Trafford. The move is a major shift in United’s attacking options ahead of the new English Premier League campaign.
New signing, Matheus Cunha, made his United debut wearing the number 10 shirt previously occupied by Rashford, though the former Wolves attacker endured a quiet afternoon in Stockholm. The Brazilian failed to register a single shot or touch inside Leeds’ penalty area during his first appearance for the club. His statistics reflected a challenging introduction, completing just one of three attempted dribbles and winning four of 10 duels contested.
Leeds created several opportunities of their own despite their limited possession, with midfielder Ao Tanaka firing wide from close range when well-placed. Winger Largie Ramazani tested United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir with a decent effort, but Daniel Farke’s side lacked the clinical edge needed to trouble their EPL opponents. The Championship winners appeared content to keep the scoreline respectable whilst gaining valuable experience against top-flight opposition.
United’s American tour will provide Amorim with additional opportunities to assess his squad depth and integrate new signings before the competitive season begins. The Portuguese manager will be concerned by his team’s inability to convert territorial advantage into goals, particularly with key fixtures against Manchester City and Arsenal scheduled for later in their US schedule. The Rashford situation will dominate headlines until resolved, leaving United supporters uncertain about their attacking options for the campaign ahead.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
