Manchester United are days away from kicking off the new season and a number of questions still hang over the club.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future remains unclear while Erik ten Hag is yet to bring in a much-needed central midfielder. However, the players he has got look to have already improved under his guidance.
They took to the training pitch at Carrington on Wednesday with the focus very much on Sunday’s Premier League opener at home to Brighton. And there were a number of interesting aspects to note.
READ MORE: Ronaldo trains with teammates following Ten Hag criticism
Ronaldo has game face on
Despite his transfer request, Ronaldo looks to have got his head down and is concentrating on rebuilding fitness ahead of the new campaign. The striker and other teammates were condemned by Ten Hag for leaving Old Trafford before the final whistle of Sunday’s 1-1 friendly draw with Rayo Vallecano.
Ronaldo is thought to be unlikely to start against the Seagulls at the weekend having only played 45 minutes of football this summer after missing United ’s pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia due to family reasons, but Anthony Martial's absence due to a hamstring injury could boost his chances of lining up.
Garnacho walks with Ronaldo
Alejandro Garnacho posted on Instagram about his excitement of having played alongside his idol on Sunday this week. After an appearance-less tour, the 18-year-old impressed in the friendly against Vallecano.
The youngster had previously netted in a 4-1 behind closed doors win over Wrexham, and joined in with first-team training again on Wednesday. He was spotted walking alongside Ronaldo out onto the training ground - another surreal moment for the teenager.
New boys putting in the work
Lisandro Martinez and Christian Eriksen are two other players working their way up to peak fitness. After arriving later in the summer, the pair have respectively only enjoyed 60 and 81 minutes of pitch time for their new club.
The duo are expected to play important roles for United this season and were seen putting in the hard yards with Bruno Fernandes.
Fernandes with Garner
Speaking of Fernandes… the midfielder was seen chatting to James Garner during a jog. Garner had a frustrating tour due to injury but has been able to enjoy a run out since.
After a stellar year with Nottingham Forest, the 21-year-old will be hoping to edge his way into Ten Hag’s plans. Any advice from Fernandes will be helpful.
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