Cunha and Mbeumo offer glimpse of United’s new era but old boy De Gea steals show | Will Unwin
The GuardianSaturday, August 9, 2025 at 3:40:08 PM
Manchester United drew 1-1 with Fiorentina but won 5-4 on penalties in a preseason friendly. The match highlighted glimpses of United’s potential new era with players like Cunha and Mbeumo, but the emotional standout was former goalkeeper David de Gea, who received a standing ovation from fans. His presence served as a nostalgic reminder of past successes, contrasting with the club’s recent struggles, which new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe aims to fix.
Editor’s Note: This story isn’t just about a preseason game—it’s a snapshot of Manchester United’s transition. Fans got a peek at new talent, but the real takeaway was the emotional return of De Gea, symbolizing both fond memories and the club’s recent missteps. With Ratcliffe now involved, this moment underscores the pressure to move forward while reconciling with the past.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
