Manchester United’s pre-season tour to the United States is officially taking off—but not without a few personal twists and surprises.
As the squad boards their flight to Chicago today, some familiar names are onboard, others are noticeably absent, and one new dad is squeezing in both football and family.
Cunha Becomes a Dad Again—Still Joins the Tour
Matheus Cunha just welcomed his second child, a baby girl, and shared the happy news on social media Monday night.
That sparked speculation he might sit out the start of United’s US tour.
But in classic Brazilian determination, the club’s brand-new £62.5 million signing is still heading across the Atlantic.
United confirmed that the 25-year-old forward is part of their 32-man squad flying to Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, where they’ll land Tuesday evening.
Maguire Stays Back for Personal Reasons
While Cunha makes the trip, centre-back Harry Maguire will be staying behind in the UK for now.
The club says it’s due to a personal matter, though there’s hope he’ll be able to link up with the squad during the tour.
No further details have been shared about his situation.
Martinez Travels but Will Likely Stay on the Sidelines
Lisandro Martinez is also making the trip, but don’t expect to see him on the pitch just yet.
He’s still recovering from a cruciate ligament injury and continues to focus on his rehab.
His inclusion is more about morale and involvement rather than match minutes.
New Signing Mbeumo Boards Just in Time
Another headline arrival is Bryan Mbeumo, who completed a £71 million transfer from Brentford just in time to make the squad.
His presence adds firepower to the front line as United gear up to face West Ham in New Jersey, Bournemouth in Chicago, and Everton in Atlanta as part of the Premier League Summer Series.
Full Squad Revealed Ahead of Departure
Here’s a breakdown of the full squad heading stateside:
Goalkeepers: Altay Bayindir, Tom Heaton, Dermot Mee, Will Murdock, Andre Onana
Defenders: Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt, Patrick Dorgu, Tyler Fredricson, Ayden Heaven, Diego Leon, Lisandro Martinez, Noussair Mazraoui, Reece Munro, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro
Midfielders: Casemiro, Toby Collyer, Bruno Fernandes, Jack Fletcher, Sekou Kone, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, Manuel Ugarte
Forwards: Amad, Matheus Cunha, Rasmus Hojlund, Bendito Mantato, Bryan Mbeumo, Chido Obi, Ethan Williams, Joshua Zirkzee
Familiar Names Left Behind as Transfer Moves Loom
Not everyone is headed to the States, though.
Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia—nicknamed Ruben Amorim’s “bomb squad”—are staying behind at Carrington to train.
That group is reportedly on the move this summer as they seek exits from Old Trafford.
Rashford Already in Barcelona for His Big Reveal
One major absence fans are buzzing about is Marcus Rashford.
He’s not only off the squad list—he’s already in Spain.
The striker is in Barcelona ahead of his expected unveiling on Wednesday, officially closing the chapter on his time at United.
Youth Talent Gets a Chance to Shine
Among the many players joining the tour are several fresh faces from the academy.
Names like Tyler Fredricson, Reece Munro, Jack Fletcher, Sekou Kone, Bendito Mantato, Chido Obi, and Ethan Williams have been called up—giving them a chance to train and possibly play alongside United’s biggest stars.
Diego Leon Adds South American Flair to the Squad
Also making the cut is Paraguayan left-back Diego Leon—United’s third signing of the summer.
He’ll be looking to impress both coaching staff and fans during the tour, potentially earning a more permanent role in the senior squad.