Manchester United Make Decision on Two Players for Athletic Bilbao Fixture at Old Trafford

Manchester United Make Decision on Two Players for Athletic Bilbao Fixture at Old Trafford

 

 

Manchester United have made key squad decisions regarding two of their senior players ahead of the high-profile friendly fixture against Athletic Bilbao at Old Trafford. The match, part of the club’s final preparations before the 2025/26 campaign kicks off, will offer fans a glimpse into Erik ten Hag’s evolving plans—and the choices made on player involvement hint at a broader strategy unfolding behind the scenes.

 

The two players in question are Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans—each at very different stages of their careers, but both with uncertain futures. According to multiple sources within the club, United have decided Sancho will not be involved, while Evans is set to feature as part of Ten Hag’s plans for defensive continuity and experience.

 

The decisions come amid growing anticipation for United’s season curtain-raiser and provide important context as the club reshapes its squad under new sporting leadership from Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS Group.

 

 

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Jadon Sancho Excluded – Future Remains in Doubt

 

United’s choice to exclude Jadon Sancho from the matchday squad against Athletic Bilbao further solidifies the belief that his time at Old Trafford may be nearing its end. The winger, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund following a public fallout with Erik ten Hag, has not reintegrated into the first-team training sessions and is not considered part of the manager’s immediate plans.

 

Sancho’s exclusion is not related to fitness—he has reportedly been training individually—but rather a tactical and disciplinary decision from Ten Hag. The rift between player and manager dates back to September 2024 when Sancho was left out of a matchday squad and responded publicly to Ten Hag’s reasoning, prompting internal disciplinary measures.

 

Despite showing flashes of his old self during his Dortmund loan, United are now open to selling the winger, who was signed from Borussia Dortmund in 2021 for £73 million. Sources suggest the club is listening to offers in the region of £35–40 million, with interest from Juventus, AC Milan, and clubs in Saudi Arabia.

 

A return to Dortmund is not ruled out, though the Bundesliga side would likely seek another loan or a reduced fee. United, meanwhile, are prioritizing dressing-room unity and remain firm that only players fully aligned with Ten Hag’s vision will be part of the new campaign.

 

By omitting Sancho from such a crucial pre-season fixture, United have effectively sent a message: unless there is a major shift in attitude or circumstances, his chapter at Old Trafford is likely closed.

 

 

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Jonny Evans to Feature – Experience Counts

 

At the other end of the spectrum is Jonny Evans, the 37-year-old veteran defender who rejoined United in 2023 as a short-term option but ended up playing a more significant role than anticipated due to the team’s injury crisis.

 

United have now confirmed that Evans will feature in the Bilbao match, not just as a backup but as part of a tactical strategy that values his experience, calmness under pressure, and understanding of the club’s ethos. With Lisandro Martínez still regaining full match fitness and Raphael Varane having officially left the club this summer, Ten Hag sees Evans as a stabilizing presence during the early stages of the season.

 

Evans is currently discussing a one-year contract extension, and his performance in this fixture may help determine the club’s final decision. Ten Hag has publicly praised the Northern Ireland international for his professionalism and composure, and he’s seen as a key mentor for younger defenders like Willy Kambwala and Teden Mengi.

 

While fans may have initially questioned Evans’ return, many have since acknowledged the value of his leadership during a turbulent defensive campaign. His inclusion in the Athletic Bilbao match underscores Ten Hag’s emphasis on balance—combining youth with dependable experience.

 

 

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Fixture Significance

 

The match against Athletic Bilbao holds more weight than a routine friendly. Scheduled at Old Trafford just a week before United’s Premier League opener, it will serve as a dress rehearsal for Ten Hag’s preferred starting XI and tactical approach.

 

With United set to face Arsenal and Liverpool in the opening two months of the league season, sharpness and team chemistry will be critical from day one. Bilbao, known for their high press and technical organization, present an ideal test.

 

The fixture is also expected to feature several key stars including Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Højlund. New signings—if any are finalized before the match—could also make their first appearance in front of a home crowd.

 

The decisions to exclude Sancho and include Evans reflect Ten Hag’s desire for clarity and consistency heading into competitive fixtures.

 

 

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Squad Depth and Strategic Planning

 

Sancho’s likely departure, and Evans’ temporary continuation, feed into the broader squad-building narrative at United this summer. Under the INEOS football division, the club is adopting a more measured and sustainable approach to recruitment, focusing on young, hungry players with high ceilings and strong professional habits.

 

Ten Hag has reportedly asked for three main additions: a central midfielder, a right winger, and a center-back. The right-wing role, previously earmarked for Sancho or Antony, now looks to be a key focus in the market. Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise and PSV’s Johan Bakayoko are both on United’s shortlist.

 

Evans’ presence, meanwhile, allows the club to pursue defensive reinforcements without immediate pressure. Talks continue over Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo, with United weighing both financial cost and long-term fit.

 

In this context, Ten Hag’s squad decisions for the Bilbao match aren’t just about the 90 minutes—they are strategic statements about who is trusted, who may be on the way out, and who holds the potential to shape United’s future.

 

 

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Fan Expectations and Club Messaging

 

Supporters are expected to pack Old Trafford for the fixture, eager to get a final look at the squad before the season kicks off. Many will view Evans’ involvement positively, recognizing the need for leadership and reliability at the back.

 

Sancho’s absence will draw criticism from some fans still hopeful for a revival of his United career. But for many others, it reaffirms the manager’s authority and the club’s commitment to discipline and performance over reputation.

 

Club insiders suggest that clear internal messaging has been a priority this summer. Ten Hag and INEOS are aligned on establishing a high-performance culture—one that rewards effort, professionalism, and tactical understanding. These values are being reflected more transparently in squad decisions and public communication.

 

 

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Conclusion

 

Manchester United’s decisions regarding Jadon Sancho and Jonny Evans for the Athletic Bilbao fixture offer a window into the club’s evolving identity. Sancho’s omission reinforces the view that his time at Old Trafford is effectively over, while Evans’ inclusion highlights the value of experience and leadership as Ten Hag builds toward a more competitive and resilient squad.

 

As fans prepare to return to Old Trafford for the final pre-season outing, the shape of United’s future is becoming clearer—defined by discipline, strategy, and a manager fully in control of the journey ahead.

 

 

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