Manchester United midfielder Mason Mount has underlined that the club’s primary objective for the season is to secure a return to European competition. Following a disappointing 15th-place finish in the league and a Europa League final loss to Tottenham, the club faces a rare season without continental football.
It marks just the second time since English clubs were banned in the 1980s that United will not be involved in European tournaments. “Europe is a massive, massive thing for us,” said Mount. “The Champions League would be amazing for us, and as a group we want to be playing in that competition. But I’d say Europe. I think that’s the focus.”
Squad overhaul and transfer rumours continue
The club has invested heavily this summer, spending over £125 million to sign attackers Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. Manchester United remains active in the market, with speculation continuing around potential additions to the forward line.
Recent reports have linked the club with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, with talk of winger Alejandro Garnacho possibly being included in swap deals. However, United officials have denied any imminent transfer activity. Meanwhile, sources close to Villa have dismissed the possibility of Watkins leaving.
Players left behind during tour
While the first team has embarked on a three-match pre-season tour in the United States – featuring matches against West Ham, Bournemouth, and Everton – several players have remained in Manchester.
Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia are continuing their preparations at the club’s Carrington base. Real Betis remain interested in bringing Antony back after a successful loan, while Juventus have shown interest in Sancho but need to clear space in their squad before moving forward.
