Sesko and De Ligt Return to Training Before Manchester United Kick-Off

Manchester United’s final week of Premier League preparation has been jolted to life by the sight the coaching staff most wanted: Benjamin Sesko and Matthijs de Ligt back in full training.

Just hours before the new campaign begins, both players joined the main group at Carrington, delivering a significant boost to a squad that has creaked under injury issues across pre-season.

For De Ligt, this was more than just another session. It was a milestone.

The Dutch defender took part in full training for the first time since undergoing back surgery in May. That operation came after the back problem he suffered last November, an issue that wrecked his season and ultimately cost him a place at the World Cup finals.

His return has been slow and carefully managed. As recently as last week in Dublin, De Ligt managed only the opening 15 minutes of a team session before stepping out. This time, he stayed the course. No restrictions, no early exit.

Out of United’s matchday squads since 30 November, he now finally looks ready to rejoin the defensive rotation as the competitive games arrive.

Sesko sharp and pushing for Hull

On the other side of the pitch, Sesko’s comeback carries its own intrigue.

The striker missed all of United’s pre-season fixtures while nursing a lower leg injury, one that also kept him out of the final three matches of last season. The club chose caution, keeping him on an individual programme on the grass across the summer.

That patience appears to be paying off. Sesko looked sharp in Tuesday morning’s session, moving freely and finishing strongly, according to those present. Inside the club, there is growing optimism that he could make the squad for the season opener against Hull City next Saturday.

A place in the starting XI might still be a step too far, but simply having him available changes the dynamic of United’s attack heading into the first league fixture.

Mount sits out, but fears eased

There was one notable gap in the training group.

Mason Mount did not take part after suffering a bruise from a stamp on his foot during the 1-1 draw with Paris Saint-Germain in Stockholm. The midfielder, who impressed in spells during that match, has now missed United’s final friendlies under Michael Carrick against Leeds United and Milan.

Club sources, cited by British outlet The Sun, insist his absence is purely precautionary. The injury is not thought to be serious, but with the league campaign about to start, United are unwilling to take unnecessary risks with a key midfield option.

Transfer business still to come

While the medical room slowly empties, the recruitment department remains busy.

United still plan to complete new signings before the summer window closes and are targeting at least two additions. The left-back position is a clear priority, with Lewis Hall identified within the club as the preferred option for that role.

They are also in the market for a high-profile defensive midfielder to anchor the centre of the pitch alongside new arrivals Youri Tielemans and Andre Santos. The idea is clear: add power and control in front of the back line, and give Carrick a deeper pool of options as the fixtures begin to pile up.

Fitness returns, minor scares, transfer pushes. United’s final days before kick-off are anything but quiet. The question now is whether this late surge of good news can carry straight into that first whistle against Hull City.