Premier League giants Manchester United faced Serie A side Fiorentina in the Snapdragon Cup clash at Old Trafford. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, the Red Devils triumphed 5-4 in the penalty shootout to secure the victory.
This trophy marks United’s third title in the past three months, having previously lifted the Hong Kong Cup and the Premier League Summer Series trophy in the USA. With the Snapdragon Cup now in their hands, they have rightfully earned the title of “Pre-Season Kings.”
De Gea’s Emotional Farewell at the Theatre of Dreams
Before kickoff, United held a farewell ceremony for club legend David de Gea, who served the team for 12 years. Captain Bruno Fernandes presented him with a framed memento of his time with the club, as the entire Old Trafford crowd stood to pay tribute.
It was also a night of welcomes, as United officially announced the signing of €85 million striker Benjamin Šeško. Alongside Cunha, Mbeumo, and Diego León, Šeško was unveiled to the fans, drawing the loudest cheers. His signing was confirmed just two hours before kickoff.
Amorim Sticks to Strikerless Formation for Second Game
Despite a lack of suitable personnel, coach Rúben Amorim persisted with the 3-4-3 system without a recognised striker, fielding Mason Mount as a false nine. Rasmus Højlund took part in the warm-up but did not play, hinting at his likely departure.
The visitors struck first in the 8th minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse from a corner as Jovic headed home. While United have spent over £200 million this summer to strengthen their attack and form a new front three, defensive vulnerabilities remain.
Mount’s stint as a central forward proved largely ineffective, with United creating few clear chances in the first half. However, they drew level thanks to an own goal from Robin Gosens, who inadvertently turned in a Bruno Fernandes corner after De Gea went to ground unexpectedly.
United’s main threat came from set pieces, with Maguire and Yoro both winning headers. One of Yoro’s efforts forced a brilliant save from De Gea, drawing applause from the home fans.
United Lift Second Pre-Season Trophy
In the second half, Amorim moved Mbeumo into the center-forward role, but both sides struggled to produce dangerous opportunities. United’s best move came in the 80th minute when Cunha’s shot was blocked after a fine passing sequence.
Fiorentina’s Kean squandered a golden one-on-one chance, shooting wide. The match ended 1-1 in standard time, sending it to penalties. De Gea, substituted late on, left the pitch to a standing ovation.
In the shootout, United goalkeeper Altay Bayındır saved Fiorentina’s fifth penalty. At the same time, Fernandes, Cunha, Dalot, Diallo, and Mainoo all scored to seal the victory and secure United’s second preseason trophy.
After the match, Amorim said, “Last season, we sometimes struggled without a proper finisher. Now we have one who fits our needs. Šeško is still very young, excellent in the air, quick in his runs, and outstanding technically. I believe he has great potential to improve further.”
Red Devils Show Strong Momentum Ahead of New Season
After winning the Snapdragon Cup, United maintained their winning form into the final stages of preseason, allowing new signings to adjust and refine their tactical setups.
Now, with a refreshed squad and renewed confidence, the Red Devils are ready to take on the challenges of the upcoming campaign, and fans have every reason to believe their preseason dominance can carry into competitive action.
