Manchester United are reportedly considering organising a behind-closed-doors friendly against a local rival this week, with the aim of giving goalkeeper André Onana and striker Benjamin Šeško crucial match minutes ahead of their Premier League opener.
With the new season just days away, United’s coaching staff are keen to ensure their key players are in peak condition. While pre-season fixtures have provided some game time, the club believes a more competitive, controlled environment is needed to fine-tune their preparations — especially for new arrivals and players still adjusting to the rhythm of English football.
According to club insiders, the idea is to simulate “real-world” match conditions without the distractions of fanfare, travel, or media attention. The match — likely to be played at United’s Carrington training complex — would offer a more intense, focused test for players like Onana and Šeško, both of whom are expected to play vital roles in the 2025/26 campaign.
Onana, entering his second season at Old Trafford, endured a mixed debut campaign. While he showed moments of brilliance, he also faced criticism for inconsistency and errors under pressure. Having joined United from Inter Milan in 2023 as a replacement for David de Gea, the Cameroonian keeper has been working hard during the summer to solidify his position as the club’s undisputed No. 1. Coaches believe a closed-door match will give him the opportunity to sharpen his communication with the backline and regain confidence ahead of the Premier League kick-off.
Meanwhile, Benjamin Šeško is one of the most exciting additions to the squad this summer. Signed from RB Leipzig, the 22-year-old Slovenian striker brings pace, strength, and a natural eye for goal. However, adapting to Erik ten Hag’s tactical demands and the intensity of English football is no small task. The friendly is seen as a key step in his integration — an opportunity to build chemistry with teammates like Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, and Alejandro Garnacho in a competitive but controlled setting.
United’s coaching staff are also viewing the match as a vital opportunity for tactical refinement. With limited training time left before their Premier League opener, this fixture could allow Ten Hag to test specific systems, pressing patterns, and transitions — all while giving fringe players and recent signings a platform to impress.
Fitness is another factor. While most of the squad have come through pre-season unscathed, match sharpness is different from training fitness. The friendly will allow players to push themselves physically in a match scenario without the risk levels associated with official fixtures.
While United have not officially confirmed the friendly, sources suggest a local Championship or League One side — possibly Stockport County or Bolton Wanderers — could be the opponent. The club intends to keep the fixture low-profile, with no fans or press allowed, ensuring players and coaches can focus solely on performance.
As the Premier League looms, every detail counts. And for Manchester United, this behind-closed-doors clash could be the perfect final tune-up for a squad hungry to make a statement this season.
