Manchester United’s first team may be deep in pre-season preparations, but it’s not just Ruben Amorim’s senior squad looking to hit the ground running this August.
With several exciting additions made to the academy setup in recent months, there’s fresh buzz surrounding United’s next generation.
After a mixed 2024/25 Premier League 2 campaign, the club’s Under-21s are aiming for a more consistent season under Travis Binnion, who remains focused on player development and tactical discipline.
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A number of key figures from last season have moved on, meaning the Red Devils’ youth side will enter the new campaign with a reshaped squad and a point to prove.
To test their progress and cohesion, United have now confirmed via the clubs official website that their Under-21s will take on Rochdale in a pre-season friendly scheduled for Saturday, 2 August, with kick-off set for 15:00 BST.
The match will be held at the Crown Oil Arena, with tickets available for £10 (adults) and £5 (concessions – under 22s and over 65s).
Notably, there will be no fan segregation at the ground for the clash.
Rochdale, now playing in the National League, finished fourth in the table last season before their promotion dreams were dashed in the play-offs by Southend United.
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However, the fixture still promises to be a tough and valuable test for United’s youngsters.
Travis Binnion will look to use the game to evaluate his new-look squad and build cohesion ahead of the new Premier League 2 season.
The clubs share a bit of recent cup history as well – most notably from 2019, when United needed penalties to edge Rochdale in the Carabao Cup after a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.
A year later, another spot-kick shootout followed a goalless draw in the EFL Trophy.
Rochdale’s current squad also includes a familiar face in Aidan Barlow, a former product of United’s Academy, who will no doubt relish the chance to face his old side.
Manchester United’s Under-21s have also been placed in Group D of the northern section of the 2025/26 EFL Trophy and will face Barnsley and Lincoln City from League One, as well as League Two challengers Notts County.
With ticket prices low and no segregation in place, this fixture promises to deliver an exciting, family-friendly encounter and a chance to see the next generation of Manchester United in action.
