After wrapping up a tough Premier League season, Manchester United’s post-season tour has already hit a sour note.
Their first friendly match against the ASEAN All-Stars in Kuala Lumpur ended in a surprising 1-0 loss, leaving fans frustrated and the team looking shaky.
Key Players Took the Field but Couldn’t Turn the Tide
Despite featuring familiar names like Bruno Fernandes, Amad, Harry Maguire, Andre Onana, and Alejandro Garnacho, United couldn’t find a way past the Southeast Asian exhibition squad.
The decisive goal came late, thanks to Maung Maung Lwin at Kuala Lumpur’s massive Bukit Jalil National Stadium, which seats 84,000.
Fans Didn’t Hold Back After Humiliating Loss
The defeat didn’t sit well with supporters back home. Social media quickly exploded with criticism.
One fan on X wondered, “You guys are losing??? How?” Another called the loss “embarrassing,” while rival fans from Arsenal and Liverpool couldn’t resist adding their own taunts about losing far from home.
Post-Season Tour Brings Mixed Feelings Amid Club Uncertainties
Manchester United had just flown out for this Far East tour mere hours after a 2-0 home win against Aston Villa.
Reports suggest the club earns around £8 million for this trip, which includes matches in Malaysia and then Hong Kong.
But behind the scenes, the mood is tense. Key players’ futures remain uncertain, stirring unrest among the squad.
Alejandro Garnacho, for instance, was subbed on against ASEAN All-Stars despite having been told by manager Ruben Amorim he might need to “pray” to find a new club — a comment reportedly made in front of teammates.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford’s agent recently met with Barcelona officials, sparking rumors of a potential summer transfer.
Focus Shifts Back to the Pitch Despite Off-Field Drama
Still, the team must focus on football, and they have one more friendly left on the tour — a match against Hong Kong at the 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium.
However, this game conflicts with the local cup final, adding logistical headaches.
The Controversy Over Post-Season Tours Continues
This type of post-season tour isn’t without its critics. Prominent figures like England manager Gareth Southgate and player Kieran Trippier have openly criticized these additional games.
Their main concern is that the extra matches pile unnecessary physical strain on players after already grueling campaigns.
International Duties Loom Soon After the Tour
To add to the packed schedule, players will soon be released for international duty.
Nations League and World Cup qualifiers start in early June. For example, Bruno Fernandes and Portugal face Germany in a crucial Nations League semi-final on June 4.