Five Manchester United players facing crunch weekend in final pre-season audition

The upcoming weekend could prove to be a crucial one for a handful of Manchester United players ahead of the new season.

Erik ten Hag has secured new signings in key areas, with Andre Onana replacing David De Gea in goal; Mason Mount bolstering the midfield; and Rasmus Hojlund looking set to fill the striker void at old Trafford. Despite a positive summer so far, there are fringe players who would have hoped to assert their place in the side across pre-season.

United are preparing for a double-header with Lens and Athletic Club over the weekend. It will be the last chance for some players to stake their claim ahead of the Premier League opener with Wolves.

READ: Manchester United's possible 20-man Premier League squad vs Wolves including Rasmus Hojlund

Harry Maguire

The former captain looked more confident in his first pre-season outing as a substitute in the win over Arsenal, but struggled to impress in the games against Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, getting a mixed reception from some United fans. The England defender was notably berated by Onana during the latter after a mistake allowed the German side to have two shots at goal in quick succession.

While not in Ten Hag’s starting XI, Maguire still has the opportunity to prove himself as an important squad player, with the club aiming to compete on four fronts next season. However, he is running out of time to prove that he can get back to his best, without the armband.

Anthony Martial

The striker would have hoped to use pre-season as a chance to prove he can be relied upon by Erik ten Hag as the club searched for a new striker. Unfortunately, the France striker was sidelined throughout United’s tour of the States and will seemingly face a fresh