Manchester United started their pre-season campaign with a goalless draw against rivals Leeds United at Strawberry Arena in Stockholm on Saturday.
Although United were in control of possession and took 19 shots at goal, they were unable to find the back of the net. Their best chance came late in the game when Mason Mount’s corner found Rasmus Hojlund, who passed it on to Kobbie Mainoo. The young midfielder’s header hit the crossbar and Leeds goalkeeper Illan Meslier was quick to save a rebound from Ayden Heaven.
Leeds had scarce opportunities but could have caused damage when Ao Tanaka shot narrowly wide from a very short distance and Largie Ramazani forced a smart save from Altay Bayindir. Newly promoted Championship winners managed just four attempts in total during the game.
United manager Ruben Amorim gave debut to Matheus Cunha, who wore the number 10 shirt vacated by Marcus Rashford, following rumors of the forward’s loan move to Barcelona. Cunha was hardly involved and did not take a shot or have any touches in the opponent’s penalty area.
United are now off to the United States to continue their pre-season and hope to improve their finishing after creating 1.77 expected goals and failing to find the net.
